BROWNSVILLE, Brooklyn (WABC) -- New York City police are continuing to search for the suspect wanted in the fatal stabbing of a worker inside a Brooklyn homeless shelter.
The stabbing happened around 6:15 p.m. on Thursday in the lobby of the Days Inn by Wyndham Brooklyn on East New York Avenue.
Upon arrival, officers found 35-year-old Robbie Miller with stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. First responders transported the victim to Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
The suspect managed to flee the scene on foot. He is described to be 6'1'' and about 225 pounds, and was last seen wearing all black, a ski mask and a baseball cap.
The shelter has been operating in the Days Inn hotel since the pandemic. The victim worked for the nonprofit hired by NYC's Department of Homeless Services to operate the shelter.
Residents at the shelter told police officers that Miller, who lives in the neighborhood, was hardworking and helpful.
Police said the shelter is not operated by the city, but the DHS released the following statement:
"This is an absolutely horrific tragedy and a tremendous loss to the Department of Homeless Services. Our hearts go out to Mr. Miller's family, friends, and colleagues, and we stand ready to support them every which way we can during this incredibly difficult time. Our not-for-profit providers'frontline staff step up every day to support vulnerable New Yorkersand we are grateful for Mr. Miller's service. Even though this incident took place outside of the shelter premises, we are working closely with the authorities to support the investigation and ensure the perpetrator is swiftly brought to justice."
Mayor Eric Adams released a statement Friday regarding the incident.
So far this year, there have been 18 murders in the Brownsville area -- compared to seven in 2023. That's a 157% increase from last year.
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