NEW YORK – Police are questioning a person of interest in connection with a series of random stabbings that have occurred in various locations across New York City over a nine-day period. Five people have been attacked so far, with three incidents taking place in Springfield Gardens on Wednesday morning, and additional attacks occurring on Tuesday and January 8.
The stabbings appear to be unprovoked, with no connection between the victims. The perpetrator is believed to be using a hunting knife and has been randomly targeting people on the streets. NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell stated, “We have an unidentified individual who’s walking around the street randomly stabbing people with a hunting knife.”
Police sources have reported that the suspect was seen wearing a lanyard around his neck with a work ID on it during some of the attacks. As of now, no charges have been filed.
The stabbing spree began on January 8 when a 61-year-old man was stabbed in the lower back. The suspect even laughed in the victim’s face after the attack, according to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny. On Tuesday, a 34-year-old woman was stabbed while coming home from work, with the assailant appearing to speak gibberish.
Two stabbings occurred near Guy Brewer Boulevard on Wednesday morning. A 41-year-old man and a 74-year-old man were injured, with the older victim being helped by a nearby shop owner who called 911. The final incident took place at Parsons Boulevard and Archer Avenue, where an altercation over a bus seat led to a stabbing.
Similar crimes in Brooklyn are also being investigated, with a 28-year-old man being stabbed on a J subway train. The suspect in the Queens cases matches the description of the assailant. Fortunately, all the victims are expected to survive their injuries.
The police are urging anyone with information to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline. Tips can be submitted via phone, website, or direct message, and all information provided will be kept confidential.
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