MODESTO -For the second time is the recent past, a Sikh convenience store clerk has lost his life in pursuit of a beer stealing thief,
Amrik S. Notay was murdered May 9, by an unknown Latino man who was stealing beer, Santokh Singh, owner of the Johnny Quik market, 325 Moge Blvd, Modesto told W.S.N. Mr:S. Singh said he left his store Saturday evening where his two workers, Amrik S. Notay and Ranjit Singh were on duty. It was his understanding that a Latino or Hispanic man tried to leave the store without paying for a 12 pack of beer. Amrik was standing by the door when the suspect Left. Amrik chased him out and began arguing with him. The man jumped into his car and Amrik then ran after him the man pushed and then stabbed Amrik who fell to the ground, about 150 yards from the store, The suspect then got out of his car and stabbed Amrik six more times. One of the wounds was to the heart and was fatal.
Mr. Singh returned to his store to find an ambulance taking Notay to Modesto Doctors Hospital where he died almost immediately.
Amrik S. Notay was alone in America. A resident for five years, he was an immigrant from Punjab, Hoshiarpur district, village Kotpatuhi. He leaves a wife, two sons and two daughters in Punjab,
who were advised of his death by telegram. The family has sought congressional assistance to gain visas in order to attend the funeral. Mr. Santokh Singh is awaiting news of their application before making the final arrangements for the family.
He told our reporter that he had monthly meetings of the convenience store workers where he told them not to risk their lives for such things.
W.S.N. wishes to add its advice to workers to avoid such situations. It is unfortunate that the Sikh tradition of honor and courage may have led to the death of Notay and to the Fresno youth,
Article extracted from this publication >> May 22, 1992
