18-year-old bodega cat Stolen right outside NYC deli

WOODSIDE, Queens (WABC) – Residents of the Woodside neighborhood in Queens are seeking help after an 18-year-old cat was stolen from a local bodega over a week ago.

Antonio, who is 18 years old, has been a cherished part of the community for years. For over a decade, Antonio has lived and “worked” at the bodega on 65th Street, becoming a familiar face to many.

The store owner, Glen Alagasi, was inside the shop when Antonio was taken.

On the evening of August 2nd, around 8:30 p.m., Alagasi recalled that it was raining when “Tony,” as he’s affectionately known, was sitting on the doorstep outside the store, as he often does.

Surveillance footage captured the moment a man took Antonio from the bodega. Though Antonio initially escaped, he was taken again shortly after.

Customers say the neighborhood feels different without Antonio.

“He’s our beloved neighborhood cat. Please return him safely,” urged customer Consuelo Berna.

The community is pleading with the person who took Antonio, or anyone who recognizes the man in the video, to return him—no questions asked.

“I’m not going to press charges. Just bring the cat back,” Alagasi said.

Missing posters have been plastered throughout the neighborhood, offering a reward in hopes that someone will identify the person who took Antonio. The posters emphasize that Antonio is a senior cat who requires medication. “The neighborhood is heartbroken. Some of the residents, now in their 20s, remember growing up with Antonio,” said neighbor Pia Tracy.

Tracy has been distributing flyers, hoping for Antonio’s safe return. “Everyone is coming together, doing what they can to bring him back. We just want him home,” Tracy said.

Antonio’s friends in the community have also started an Instagram page (@helpusfindantonio), sharing photos and information on how to contact the bodega to ensure his safe return.

“Someone must know who took him. If you do, please do the right thing,” Tracy pleaded.