Broadway actor John Cardoza was robbed by a panhandler inside a Dunkin Donuts in Manhattan, New York City, on Easter Sunday.
Broadway Actor John Cardoza Gets Robbed Inside Dunkin Donuts in New York City
According to The New York Post, John Cardoza, known for his role as Young Noah in "The Notebook" musical, was already the second theater star to become a crime victim in the city that day.
The actor was allegedly accosted by the suspect, who claimed to have a gun and demanded money while they were inside "the Hamilton Heights coffee shop at around 1:45 p.m.," according to police and sources.
Cardoza recounted the incident in an Instagram story, saying that the suspect had asked for cash at Dunkin Donuts on West 145th Street. He said he offered to purchase the suspect lunch because he had no cash, "and it escalated from there very quickly."
Cardoza mentioned being "held at gunpoint," but authorities told The Post that the suspect did not brandish a weapon but rather simulated having one by placing his hand inside his pocket.
What Did the Robber Steal From Broadway Actor John Cardoza?
Despite the traumatic experience, John Cardoza reassured his followers that he was unharmed and that the robber snatched his wallet with only $9 inside, which he emphasized was replaceable.
The suspect managed to flee the scene, and no arrests have been made yet in connection with the incident.
"I was grateful to have a place to head immediately after (the robbery) full of people I love, to do work that I love. So I've been in good hands," he said on Instagram.
"It makes me sad to think people are as desperate as this - and it makes me sad to feel a need alert anyone to this kind of activity," he added.
After discovering that the suspect had since tried to use his credit card in several bodegas, pharmacies, and grocery stores in the area, Cardoza warned his friends and residents to "be careful" in "these places that we all frequent."
"I wanted to bring attention to some friends, and to anyone who lives in the area to be careful because it really does sneak up on you and I don't know where that guy is now. I want people to be well and alert," he said in another Instagram post.
Police said the investigation is still ongoing.
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