A Manhattan pizzeria worker was severely injured after being attacked by an irate customer’s pitbull during a brutal beatdown on Monday. The victim, Zakaira El Sherief, remains in a coma and is connected to a respirator. The alleged attacker, Tyshaun Watson, a National Guard member and hospitality worker from New Jersey, was arraigned on Wednesday and prosecutors requested a bail of $250,000 cash/$500,000 insurance or partially-secured bond for charges including second-degree attempted murder. The judge granted the request, expressing surprise that any bail was requested given the severity of the victim’s condition.
Defense attorneys for Watson revealed that he is a senior sales manager at a hotel on Fifth Avenue, specializing in selling blocks of rooms to large groups. Watson is also a chemical specialist in the National Guard and a father of a 10-year-old boy. Prior to his current job, he worked for Apple but was laid off during the pandemic. Colleagues and customers of El Sherief have described him as a nice man who is friendly with everyone. Regular patrons of the pizza joint, including Cleuza Marcondes, expressed shock and sadness over the incident, highlighting El Sherief’s generosity and kindness towards others.
The judge at Watson’s hearing acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and the victim’s grave condition, suggesting that remand might have been more appropriate based on the circumstances. El Sherief’s current status and the violent nature of the attack prompted concerns from the judge about the case. Despite Watson’s background in the military and his previous employment history, the judge ultimately decided to grant bail, albeit a significant amount, in light of the severity of the charges.
Friends and acquaintances of El Sherief have been visiting him in the hospital to check on his condition and offer support during this difficult time. Many have expressed shock and sadness over the incident, describing him as a gentle and kind person. El Sherief, originally from Egypt, has lived in Italy for several years, where his wife and children currently reside. Customers who interact with him regularly at the pizzeria speak highly of his character and generosity, emphasizing that he has always been pleasant, friendly, and engaging with everyone he meets. The incident has had a profound impact on the community, with many hoping for El Sherief’s recovery and justice for the alleged attacker.
The case has generated significant attention due to the brutal nature of the attack and the serious injuries sustained by the victim. Prosecutors are pursuing charges of attempted murder against Watson, who has been deemed a flight risk and a danger to the community based on the severity of the allegations. The judge’s decision to set a substantial bail amount reflects the gravity of the situation and the need to ensure that Watson remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. The impact of the incident on both the victim and the community at large has underscored the need for accountability and justice in this case. As El Sherief continues to fight for his life, the legal process will unfold to determine the appropriate consequences for the alleged attacker.
