The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office and the Atlantic City Police Department are actively investigating the death of a 66-year-old man on the evening of April 1, 2021, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner announced.
Officials said at 7:41 p.m., Atlantic City Police Officers responded to a business in the 1500 block of the Boardwalk in reference to a male with a knife.
Personnel at the Atlantic City Police Surveillance Center further advised officers that multiple juveniles were damaging the store and assaulting individuals. While attempting to steal items, a 12-year-old male brandished a knife and threatened the store owner.
Responding officers arrested a 12-year-old male and a 14-year-old female. Shortly after the officers' arrival, the store owner Mahmood Ansari, of Atlantic City, collapsed and was not breathing.
A bystander initiated CPR, which was taken over by Officer Joseph Kelly and then medical personnel. Ansari was transported to the AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center City Campus, where he was pronounced deceased.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, Major Crimes Unit, responded to the scene and assisted in the investigation. The investigation continues in an attempt to identify the other juveniles that were involved in this incident.
“There is an active investigation into the circumstances of the death of Mr. Ansari and his autopsy results are pending.
We should look to support one another as we prepare to welcome visitors to our region for the spring and summer tourism season,” Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner said.
Atlantic City Police arrested and charged the following juveniles:
A 12-year-old male from Atlantic City is charged with Robbery (two counts), unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, simple assault, shoplifting, terroristic threats, conspiracy.
The male was remanded to Harborfields Detention Facility.
A 14-year-old female from Atlantic City is charged with Robbery, simple assault, shoplifting, and conspiracy.
The female was released into the custody of a parent with a future court date.
“The Atlantic City Police Department is aware of the concerns and complaints from the business community regarding juveniles,” said Interim Officer in Charge James Sarkos.
“As the weather turns warmer, the Atlantic City Police Department will work and coordinate with businesses along our famous Boardwalk and retail areas.
We are working closely with the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office on this investigation.”