Officers were called to the home on 2400 Wickham Ave in Pelham Gardens on Tuesday afternoon after reports of a robbery suspect wearing a uniform.
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When officers went to the back of the home, they found the body of 91-year-old Nicholas Rappa. His hands were bound, he had trauma to the face and lacerations to his arm.
Neighbors describe the victim as spry, active, kind and a 'good guy with a heavy Italian accent.' They often called him the 'Mayor of the Block.'
Police say the suspect did not go into the house where his wife was, and was seen on a neighbor's camera. They say the victim allowed the suspect into the attached garage.
Neighbors say the victim went to the grocery store, and always paid in cash and carried a wad of money with him, and believe he was followed home.
The suspect is said to have fled in a white pickup truck.
An autopsy will determine how the man died.
The investigation is ongoing.
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