New York City – Two separate attacks occurred in Times Square on Thursday night, leading the NYPD to search for 18 individuals allegedly involved. The incidents included a stabbing that resulted in a 17-year-old being hospitalized. The NYPD stated that there was an altercation preceding the attacks but they do not appear to be linked.
The teenage victim was reportedly stabbed in the back near W. 42nd St. around 5:30 p.m. A group of the suspects, as well as the victim, are believed to be migrants. Seven individuals have been taken into custody, while the police are still on the lookout for 16 others. The teenager is currently in stable condition at Bellevue Hospital.
A separate attack occurred almost two hours later, where a 28-year-old man was assaulted by a group of men, resulting in repeated kicks to his head and face. Three suspects have been apprehended, with two others still being sought by law enforcement.
The NYPD is currently questioning those in custody and anticipates filing charges on Friday. Interestingly, the stabbing incident happened mere steps away from where two NYPD officers were previously attacked near a migrant shelter.
On another note, bodycam footage was released showing the attack on the two NYPD officers that took place on Jan. 27. Up to 14 individuals were involved in the attack on the officers, who were attempting to disperse a group of disorderly men near Times Square. Initial arrests were made, but all suspects were released without bail, causing public uproar.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg faced severe criticism for the release of the suspects and the delay in indictments. However, Bragg defended the handling of the case, stating that each person involved had been identified and their roles in the attack determined.
In light of these events, five suspects linked to the Times Square attack on the NYPD officers are now in custody. Two of the suspects have ties to a violent Venezuelan gang known as Tren de Aragua. The suspects have faced a judge and are behind bars awaiting further legal proceedings.