In a disturbing pattern of violence, a person of interest is now under questioning following at least five random stabbings that occurred over a nine-day period across various neighborhoods in New York City.
The most recent incidents unfolded on Wednesday morning in Springfield Gardens, adding to the attacks that transpired on Tuesday and January 8. The New York Police Department (NYPD) Chief of Patrol, John Chell, revealed that an unidentified individual appears to be walking the streets, randomly attacking people with a hunting knife in unprovoked assaults.
Police sources disclosed that the suspect was seen wearing a lanyard with a work ID around his neck during some of the attacks. As of now, no charges have been filed against the individual in question.
The spree of stabbings dates back to January 8, starting with a 61-year-old man stabbed in the lower back at 137th Avenue and 157th Street at 6:20 p.m. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny noted the suspect’s disturbing behavior, stating that in this particular incident, the assailant laughed in the victim’s face after the attack.
On Tuesday, a 34-year-old woman was stabbed at 158th Street and 134th Avenue while returning home from work. Kenny described the assailant as a male who ran up behind her, initially giving the impression of a punch, but it was soon realized that she had been stabbed in the right side. The victim reported the suspect speaking incoherently to himself.
Wednesday morning saw two consecutive stabbings near Guy Brewer Boulevard at 134th Avenue, involving a 41-year-old man and a 74-year-old man. The latter victim was assisted by Bruce An, the owner of a nearby dry cleaning shop, who promptly called 911 upon discovering the injured individual.
The final incident occurred at Parsons Boulevard and Archer Avenue, where a dispute over a bus seat escalated into a stabbing after both parties disembarked. The NYPD is examining a similar crime in Brooklyn, where a 28-year-old man was stabbed on a J subway train, matching the description of the suspect in the Queens cases.
Despite the alarming nature of these attacks, all the victims are expected to survive. While a recent stabbing on a J train in Williamsburg has not been directly linked to the person of interest, authorities are investigating any potential connections. The NYPD continues its efforts to apprehend the suspect and ensure the safety of the public.
