BREAKING: In a shocking wave of crime, five mail carriers have been robbed within just 25 days in Western New York, prompting urgent calls for increased safety measures. This alarming trend has left postal workers and community members on edge as the holiday season approaches.
The first robbery occurred on November 10, 2025, when a mail carrier was attacked and robbed of their arrow key on Morton Drive in Amherst. Just six days later, on November 16, another carrier was assaulted on Eller Avenue in Buffalo. According to a police report, the victim was put in a chokehold from behind, while one suspect punched them in the head. The attackers fled with the carrier’s bag and arrow key, leading to injuries that required hospitalization.
On December 3, 2025, a mail carrier fell victim to a gunpoint robbery near Moselle Street and E Delavan Avenue in Buffalo. The very next day, another carrier was robbed at gunpoint on Parkdale Avenue in Buffalo. On December 5, 2025, a mail carrier was robbed of her arrow key on Forest Avenue in Niagara Falls.
David J. Grosskopf Jr., President of the National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 3, expressed deep concern, stating, “It’s never been like this.” He highlighted that the suspects are primarily targeting the arrow keys, which provide access to collection boxes and mailboxes, making them especially valuable during the busy holiday mailing season.
In response to the escalating violence, Grosskopf Jr. is advocating for the reinstatement of the Postal Police, a unit removed from street patrols five years ago. He argues, “If we were having an issue on the street, it wouldn’t be uncommon to have Postal Police in a neighborhood watching a carrier.” He emphasized the importance of safety for postal workers and the public’s role in monitoring their well-being.
The Protect Our Letter Carriers Act is also a key focus for Grosskopf Jr., proposing $7 billion in funding to modernize delivery infrastructure and increase penalties for attacks on mail carriers. He urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities by calling 911. He encourages sending mail from post offices whenever possible to reduce risks.
The situation reflects a growing concern for mail carriers across the nation. In 2023, the National Association of Letter Carriers reported 1,367 incidents, including 628 robberies and 542 assaults. The recent surge in attacks in Western New York underscores the urgent need for action to protect these essential workers.
As authorities continue to investigate these incidents, residents are urged to remain alert and supportive of their local mail carriers. The safety of these workers is paramount, especially as they play a crucial role in delivering holiday cheer during this critical time of year.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
