Neighbors react to recent incidents on Hertel Avenue

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) – It’s been a tough few weeks on Hertel Avenue.

Earlier this month, a man was shot and killed outside the Del Denby Tavern.

Last weekend, authorities discovered what they called an “illegal speakeasy” operating in Hertel. The police ordered the closure of “Occasions” and fined the owner for lack of permits.

7 News spent part of Monday speaking with business owners and residents who say despite recent negative incidents, they are keeping a positive attitude as summer approaches.

Matt Scherer lives in the neighborhood and says he loves biking with his son.

“We like that things are obviously close to where we live,” Scherer said. “Things we can reach on foot and by bike. There are nearby playgrounds for children, grocery stores, a pharmacy.”

He said overall he feels safe in that area, but he doesn’t like hearing about recent crimes.

“We’re hearing about people breaking into cars, increased foot traffic as the weather gets better and more and more reports like that,” Scherer said.

Salvatore Dentico lives and works in the neighborhood. He is also vice-president of the Hertel Business Association.

“Our goal here is obviously to keep Hertel Avenue thriving and we’re not going to allow these isolated incidents to set us back,” Dentico said.

Dentico said it has a diverse mix of businesses and plans to open more.

“We have a theater. We have the Italian Cultural Center on one end. We have a new development on the other end at Main Street and Hertel,” Dentico said.

New businesses are also joining the community, including Loud House, October House Vintage and a new golf simulator opening in the coming months.

Dentico said he is looking forward to the summer events that begin Friday with the Hertel Music Series. It will start this Friday at 6 p.m. and continue until 9 p.m. Bands will play throughout the Hertel and shops and restaurants will be open. It is scheduled for the last Friday of each month until September.

“We’re moving forward,” Dentico said, adding, “Buffalo police have done a wonderful job patrolling Hertel Avenue.”