Full Breakdown
Pizzeria Owner Takes Action Against Local Crime in Queens
4/7/2026, 2:03:57 AM
Recent Incidents of Violence
Louie Suljovic, the owner of Louie’s Pizzeria in Elmhurst, Queens, has recently made headlines for his proactive stance against crime in his neighborhood. On April 1, 2026, Suljovic confronted a 34-year-old man, Jose Guadfebles, who entered his pizzeria brandishing a box cutter and demanding food. Suljovic, a military veteran, intervened to protect his customers, stating, “I had to deescalate the situation.” After a brief struggle, he managed to disarm Guadfebles and hold him until the NYPD arrived. Guadfebles was subsequently charged with criminal mischief and menacing.
Just three days later, Suljovic again took action when he stopped a suspected drunk driver from fleeing the scene of a hit-and-run outside his pizzeria. He opened the driver’s door, removed the keys, and restrained the individual until police arrived. These incidents highlight Suljovic's commitment to his community, as he expressed, “I love my neighborhood. I’m here to protect my customers and my people.”
Background of Violence in the Area
This is not the first time Suljovic has faced violence. In March 2022, he and his father were stabbed multiple times while attempting to assist an elderly woman who was being robbed outside their shop. Both suffered serious injuries but returned to work shortly after recovering. Suljovic noted that the safety situation in Elmhurst has deteriorated since then, stating, “Things have gotten worse.”
James McMenamin, vice president of the Newtown Civic Association, echoed this sentiment, describing a decline in the quality of life in the area, with increased petty theft and disturbances from transients. He criticized local officials for their “pro-crime policies,” suggesting that these have contributed to the rising crime rates.
Community Response and Official Statements
The incidents involving Suljovic have garnered attention and support from the local community. John Forgash, founder of Queens Together, praised Suljovic's bravery and called for a system to alert business owners about local crime trends, similar to an Amber Alert. He emphasized the need for increased vigilance among local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Suljovic remains committed to his community. He stated, “I’m a part of my community, what am I going to do? Leave everybody behind?” His determination reflects a broader concern among local residents about safety and the effectiveness of current law enforcement practices.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Suljovic's actions have been widely praised, there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of law enforcement in the area. Guadfebles was released from jail without bail after pleading not guilty, raising concerns about the judicial system's handling of repeat offenders. Critics argue that immediate releases contribute to ongoing safety issues, while others believe that more systemic changes are needed to address the root causes of crime.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I had to deescalate the situation,” — Louie Suljovic, Pizzeria Owner
- “Things have gotten worse,” — Louie Suljovic, Pizzeria Owner
- “The quality of life in the vicinity has gotten progressively worse.” — James McMenamin, Newtown Civic Association
- “An alert should go out through the police or another network to business owners, warning them to be vigilant, letting them know about recent crimes against businesses in the area,” — John Forgash, Queens Together
Through these incidents, Louie Suljovic exemplifies a community member taking a stand against crime, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by residents in Elmhurst.
