New Jersey man stabs food workers over dispute related to a 2021 eggplant sandwich, leaving them upset.

In a distressing incident that unfolded in Newark, New Jersey, two bakery operators were stabbed by a customer over a dispute related to a 2021 eggplant sandwich order. The victims, 46-year-old Mohammad Assad and his 41-year-old brother Abed Assad, were reportedly attacked at their establishment, Baladna Bakery, shortly after it opened for business on Thursday.

According to reports from Media News Source, Mohammad was severely injured in the chest, suffering a punctured lung, while Abed sustained a slash wound to his arm. Both individuals were transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center for medical attention. As of Monday afternoon, law enforcement had not made any arrests, and the suspect remains at large.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the assailant employed a box cutter to inflict the injuries. Abed, attempting to protect his brother, became the second victim during the altercation. He expressed familiarity with the assailant, recalling a visit four years prior, although they had been too occupied to address the individual’s recent complaints.

Reports indicate that the attacker had voiced grievances regarding his treatment during a previous visit, alleging he was cheated out of a hot dog. In a bizarre escalation, he also expressed his distaste for eggplant, informing the brothers that he was allergic to the vegetable. Despite the Assads’ attempts to resolve the situation by offering him a hot dog in exchange for a peaceful exit, their efforts were futile, leading to the violent confrontation.

Following the assault, the family-owned Baladna Bakery closed its doors the day after the incident. The Assad family has operated the bakery for over a decade and, according to community sources, is well-known for their service and dedication to their customers.

Newark police are continuing their investigation, seeking leads that might help identify the perpetrator. The local community has expressed shock and concern over the violence that escalated from what was reportedly a long-standing grievance.

As the situation develops, authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in addressing such acts of violence.