Bodega owner’s heroism shines light on ‘Safe Haven Zone’ initiative

A bodega owners act of heroism earlier this week has prompted others to call for more protection in the community.
Highbridge bodega owner Edward Lara helped a teen Monday night that was being chased into his business by a group of men. Lara stood outside the store and would not let the men inside.
The incident was eerily comparable to the events leading up to the death of Lesandro "Junior" Guzman Feliz back in June.
Councilman Andy King has been pushing for more business owners to act as Lara did. Since Junior's death, he has been pushing for the “Safe Haven Zone” initiative, which would train businesses on how to react to similar situations and other emergencies.
Councilman King says he doesn't want store owners to be police officers or put themselves in harm’s way. He says he believes training for those situations could go a long way.