NYPD Investigating Connection of Recent Deaths near The Brooklyn Mirage Following Abduction of Connecticut Doctor

After two devastating deaths and an abduction near The Brooklyn Mirage, the New York Police Department is investigating connections to the case after a Connecticut doctor was allegedly kidnapped outside of the venue.

In the early hours of July 22, 32-year-old Michael Bautista was allegedly kidnapped by Anthony Benjamin and forced to withdraw thousands of dollars to spend at several stores, a barber shop, and a strip club. Bautista left The Brooklyn Mirage after a concert on July 21 and hailed a taxi to go to his car. He was then taken to a party by an apparent club promoter. 

The doctor claims that after he refused to pay the driver, the suspect took the conversation over before implying that he had a weapon and forcing Bautista to drive him around the Bronx in New York. The suspect, Anthony Benjamin, was then seen spending approximately $6,000 around the city. Law enforcement says that Benjamin later threatened Bautista’s life. 

Police stated that Bautista tried to remain calm during his abduction, even when Benjamin alluded to past violent crimes. The doctor was on call that weekend and was called into the hospital for an emergency. Bautista was then able to tell the hospital staff that he had been kidnapped. Police officers arrested Benjamin, as well as his friend who had driven Bautista’s car. 

The abduction is one of three crimes reported outside of The Brooklyn Mirage in three months, including the deaths of Karl Clemente and John Castic, who were found in Newtown Creek after they were last seen at The Brooklyn Mirage. Bautista’s kidnapping was reported one month after Clemente’s passing and one week before Castic’s. 

The NYPD has confirmed that they are investigating whether or not Clemente, Castic, and Bautista’s cases are connected. The police department has stated that they do not suspect foul play in the deaths of Clemente or Castic. According to reports, Anthony Benjamin has charges of, “…second-degree kidnapping with a firearm and possession of a controlled substance…” and is out on bond.

The community has come together in light of the abduction, urging The Brooklyn Mirage to increase security and safety measures. As the NYPD continues to investigate the abduction and deaths, we are sending our condolences to loved ones and victims.