“Welcome back to Real Mob Stories with James Proctor! Today, we’re busting one of the biggest myths in Mafia history: the idea that Colombo soldier Joey Gallo was behind the infamous 1957 rubout of Gambino family boss Albert Anastasia. While it makes for a dramatic story, the truth is far more calculated—and involves some of the most trusted men in Vito Genovese and Carlo Gambino’s inner circles.
Let’s set the scene: it’s the morning of October 25, 1957. Albert Anastasia, also known as ‘The Mad Hatter,’ is settling into his regular chair at the barbershop inside the Park Sheraton Hotel in Manhattan. He’s there every other week like clockwork. But this time, he’s not walking out alive.
According to a January 1963 FBI report, the plot to take down Anastasia was orchestrated by Vito Genovese and Carlo Gambino. Both had their reasons. Gambino wanted to take over the family, while Genovese saw an opportunity to weaken a rival family and solidify his power. Gambino turned to his trusted lieutenant, Joseph Biondo, to assemble a team of contract hitters.
The hit squad was led by Stephen Armone, with his brother Joe ‘Piney’ Armone assisting. The primary shooterman? Stephen ‘Stevie Coogan’ Grammauta , a trusted soldier. The backup gunman was Arnold ‘Witty’ Wittenburg, a 53-year-old Jewish associate known for his connections with dope.
Here’s where it gets even more fascinating: a boxer named Johnny Busso, who was staying at the Park Sheraton for a match at Madison Square Garden that weekend, unknowingly played a role. The weapons were stashed in Busso’s room by another conspirator, Andrew Alberti, who ensured everything was ready for the hit.
On that fateful morning, witnesses saw both Alberti and Busso in the lobby of the Park Sheraton. Stephen Grammauta fit the description of the lead gun-man that ended Anastasia’s reign. NYPD internal files later confirmed these details, casting doubt on Joey Gallo’s involvement altogether.
So, why the myth about Gallo? The Gallo brothers were known for their antics and often exaggerated their involvement in major events to bolster their reputation. But in reality, this was a calculated move orchestrated by Gambino and Genovese, executed by a handpicked team of professionals.
What do you think? Does this new insight change how you view Anastasia’s takedown? Let me know in the comments below. And as always, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell for more stories that uncover the truth behind Mafia legends. Until next time, take care, stay safe, and God bless.”
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