September 9, 2025 BROOKLYN, NY – A horrific act of workplace violence has rocked the quiet Starrett City community after a former employee was arrested and charged with murder in the brutal stabbing of a current IHOP worker.
Sources confirm that 44-year-old Wilber Salazar Rios is in police custody following a fatal Friday night altercation at the popular pancake chain. The victim, 67-year-old Hector Reinoso-Perez, who worked as a cleaner, was allegedly followed into a restaurant bathroom by Rios before being stabbed in the torso.
The senseless attack also left a second employee, a 41-year-old man, with a serious hand injury. According to witnesses, the employee heard a struggle and intervened, attempting to stop the assault before being slashed.
Rios, who reportedly has no prior criminal history, was arrested at the scene and also faces charges of assault with intent to cause serious physical injury.
In a statement, local IHOP franchisee Bernardo DeJesus addressed the tragedy, stating, "Our thoughts are with the loved ones of our team member... We are cooperating fully with the local law enforcement investigation. The safety of our team members and guests is our number one priority."
