New York City – The NYPD is searching for 18 individuals linked to two separate incidents of violence in Times Square on Thursday night. The incidents, including a stabbing that resulted in a 17-year-old being hospitalized, are under investigation by the police.
Reports indicate that an argument preceded the two attacks, but authorities do not believe they are connected. The 17-year-old victim, stabbed near W. 42nd St., is said to be a migrant, along with some of the suspects involved. Police have detained seven individuals and are in pursuit of 16 others. The teenager is currently in stable condition at Bellevue Hospital.
In a separate attack two hours later, a 28-year-old man was assaulted by a group of men, sustaining repeated kicks to the head and face. Three people have been taken into custody in connection with this incident, while the search continues for two additional suspects.
Authorities are currently interrogating those in custody with expectations of charges being filed on Friday. The stabbing incident occurred in close proximity to where two NYPD officers were attacked last month near a migrant shelter.
The bodycam footage of the assault on the two officers on January 27, carried out by as many as 14 individuals, resulted in initial arrests of four individuals, with a fifth apprehended a few days later. Outrage ensued after all suspects were released on bail.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg faced intense criticism over the handling of the case, particularly the release of the suspects on bail and the delay in bringing indictments. Amidst public outcry, Bragg assured that a thorough investigation had been conducted to identify all individuals involved in the attack.
The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order in popular tourist destinations like Times Square, underscoring the need for swift and decisive action to address such acts of violence.