Reward increased for bodega killers

About two dozen Guardian Angels, friends and family members of slain bodega owner Bolivar Cruz gathered in front of the Kennedy Mini Mart in South Ozone Park recently, to remember the slain father of seven and announce a higher reward for his killers.
The demonstration on Saturday, August 18, was organized by Hispanics Across America, according to the group’s spokesperson Fernando Mateo, to keep the public’s attention focused on Cruz’ murder and to encourage someone to come forward and claim the reward, which has now reached $15,000.
“We got to that level with the support of the Guardian Angels, 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement and the New York Police Department TIPS line (800-577-TIPS)” Mateo said. “There were three of them who did this, and somebody has to know something,” he suggested.
Mateo conceded that turnout may have been reduced by the near-perfect summer weather - crystal-clear skies and pleasant temperatures - and the fact that the group’s own media advisory erroneously reported the store’s address, which is actually 133-45 131st Street and not 135th Street, an error which has been repeated in most reports of the incident and its aftermath.
Those in attendance were undaunted. Six of the seven fatherless Cruz sisters made brief remarks, and placed flowers at a make-shift shrine to their murdered father. “This means something to us,” said Angela Cruz to the small crowd, “I hope we can get justice for my dad.”
Among the bystanders was Patricia Tappy, the letter carrier who has delivered mail to the area for eight years. “He was a sweetheart of a man,” Tappy said. “Even when you didn’t have (enough) he still gave,” she said.
“I may have to run to finish my route on time, but I’ve got to be here to support the family,” Tappy declared.
After the brief ceremony and remarks, the small crowd, escorted by police, marched in a circuit through the residential neighborhood of neat single-family homes, where people sweep their own sidewalks, barbecue and gather for church socials.
Those activities paused as the group passed, chanting, “What do we want? Justice! When do we want it? Now!”