A postal worker who was fatally stabbed in a NYC deli had a history of knife violence.

The suspect, who is armed with a knife, is accused of murdering a postal worker in a New York City deli after an argument about who should go first in line. The suspect has a history of violent crimes.

On Thursday, letter carrier Ray Hodges was fatally stabbed and slashed inside a Harlem deli by Jaia Cruz, who authorities described as transgender, while Hodges was purchasing lunch.

The USPIS confirmed Hodges as the victim.

Hodges, 36, was rushed to Harlem Hospital and later declared deceased.

The New York Post reported that Cruz has five previous arrests for crimes involving knives. In July 2020, Cruz was arrested for brandishing an open box cutter at another person in Midtown Manhattan and shouting, "I’m going to cut him," police sources told the newspaper.

Cruz refused to comply with the order to lie down and was subsequently arrested for resisting arrest.

Two weeks after his initial arrest, Cruz was taken into custody once more for his alleged involvement in a robbery. This time, he used knives to steal the victim's wallet and phone after the victim had invited him and his companion to hang out.

The USPIS prioritizes the safety and well-being of postal service employees and is collaborating with the New York City Police Department on the investigation.