The owner of Utica Tax LLC, Thuy Tran, is pleading for an end to the repeated attacks on his Buffalo business as police launch an investigation into the ongoing vandalism. Tran has been dealing with a troubling pattern of someone smashing the front windows of his storefront for the past several months.
"Every month it seems like somebody comes by with a rock. 2am or 3am. They just break it," Tran expressed his frustration. "They'll come by with a rock sometimes with a hammer. They're not even taking anything. If they take something, I would be less mad, but here they just break the windows and run away."
The most recent incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, June 21st when surveillance footage captured an individual approaching the accounting firm on Tonawanda Street with a rock in hand. After surveying the area, the person forcefully threw the rock at the front window before fleeing the scene. Tran shared his concerns, stating, "So every time they break it, it's something I have to worry about."
To mitigate the damage, Tran spends a significant amount of time covering up the windows with plywood. However, the cost of repairing each window amounts to approximately $2,000.
Evidence of the previous attacks is still visible with shattered glass scattered across the sidewalk and along the frames of the replaced windows.
Tran expressed his concerns about the future, stating, "I don't think this is gonna be the last time. I think it will keep going, and I don't know what to do about it. I don't know why this particular property has this problem. I don't have a problem with anybody, and it keeps happening. I feel like my work is wasted." Tran is dedicated to building up the community and hopes that those responsible for the attacks will cease their destructive actions.
A city spokesperson confirmed that police and detectives are actively investigating the incidents of the Buffalo storefront being targeted in repeated attacks. They urge anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation by calling or texting the confidential tipline at (716) 847-2255.
As the investigation unfolds, the Buffalo community stands in solidarity with Thuy Tran and Utica Tax LLC, condemning these senseless acts of vandalism. The hope is that the perpetrators will be identified and brought to justice, allowing Tran to continue his efforts in building a thriving community.