WOODSIDE, Queens— Residents of the Woodside neighborhood in Queens are rallying for the return of an elderly cat, Antonio, who was stolen from a local bodega more than a week ago. The 18-year-old feline has been a cherished fixture at the store on 65th Street for over a decade.
The theft occurred on August 2nd, around 8:30 p.m., amidst a rainstorm. According to store owner Glen Alagasi, Antonio, affectionately known as “Tony,” was outside on the doorstep when a man was captured on surveillance footage taking the cat. Although Antonio initially managed to escape, he was taken again shortly afterward.
The loss has left a significant void in the community. Regular customers and local residents are expressing their distress and longing for Antonio’s safe return. “He’s our beloved neighborhood cat. Please return him safe,” pleaded customer Consuelo Berna.
Alagasi has made a heartfelt appeal for the cat’s return, emphasizing that he will not press charges. “I’m not pressing any charges on you. Just bring the cat,” Alagasi stated.
The neighborhood is actively involved in the search, with missing posters offering a reward and highlighting Antonio’s need for medication. “The neighborhood is upset. People who live here, they’re in their 20s and they’re like, I remember being a little kid and Antonio was part of growing up,” said Pia Tracy, a local resident.
Tracy has been instrumental in spreading the word, putting up flyers and helping to manage an Instagram page (@helpusfindantonio) dedicated to the search. The page provides updates and contact information for those who might have information about Antonio’s whereabouts.
“The community is coming together, doing everything we can to bring him back. We just want him home,” Tracy emphasized.
As the search continues, the community remains hopeful that Antonio will be reunited with his beloved bodega and its many supporters.
Related Topics
Are Havana Brown Cats Hypoallergenic?
