A quiet 64‑year‑old Italian‑American named Nicola Tanzi was beaten to death outside a Brooklyn subway station on October 7. The attack happened at the Jay Street‑MetroTech Station, where Tanzi had worked as a security guard for 15 years.
He was a devoted Catholic who kept a door open for strangers and spent much of his free time volunteering at local churches, including St. Dominic’s in Bensonhurst and Sacred Hearts of Mary and Jesus in Carroll Gardens.
More than 100 family members and friends gathered Friday night at Andrew Torregrossa & Sons Funeral Home in Brooklyn to celebrate Tanzi’s life. Family members called him “a wonderful, caring human being” and “a simple guy with an infectious laugh.”
His eldest brother, Anthony, recalled that Nicola had planned to retire in June and move to Long Island, but that plan was abruptly cut short when he was attacked.
The funeral service included an urn on the front of the chapel, surrounded by flowers and photographs that highlighted his faith and community service.
The killer, 25‑year‑old David Mazariegos, was arrested and charged with first‑degree murder. Prosecutors say he was a repeat offender with five open criminal cases. He struck Tanzi twice in the face, knocked him to the floor, and then kicked him even after Tanzi was unconscious.
Tanzi died hours later from a skull fracture, a crushed nasal bone and multiple facial injuries. Mazariegos allegedly said he hated the way Tanzi kept a door open for him and wanted to “take his spirit.” He is being held without bail at Rikers Island.
Neighbors and long‑time friends describe Nicola as a “nice guy” who never hurt anyone. One childhood friend, Richard Ravaloi, said he was “in a good mood, laughing and joking” every day he worked at the subway station.
The attack shocked the community. Residents continue to mourn the loss of a beloved neighbor, civil‑rights activists call for improved security at subway stations, and local churches are offering services to help the grieving family cope.
Source: New York Post
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