The New York City Police Department is seeking public assistance in identifying a male suspect connected to a hate crime assault that occurred on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The incident took place on an MTA shuttle bus 8810, near 118th Street and Liberty Avenue in the jurisdiction of the 106 Precinct.
According to police reports, the assailant approached a 19-year-old male passenger and made the discriminatory comment, “We don’t wear that in this country and take that mask off!”
The unknown individual assaulted the victim, striking him multiple times in the back of the head, face, and back. He also attempted to forcibly remove the victim’s turban. The attacker fled the scene on foot along Liberty Avenue.
The victim sustained minor lacerations and pain but refused further medical treatment at the scene.
The NYPD described the suspect as a male between the ages of 25 and 35, with a dark complexion and a slim build. He stands approximately 5’9″ tall and has brown eyes and black hair. He was last observed wearing a yellow bubble jacket, blue jeans, and sneakers.
The NYPD Hate Crimes Unit is actively investigating the case. Images of the suspect, obtained from the bus’s security footage, were released today the NYPD’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Information (DCPI).
The NYPD urges anyone with relevant information to contact the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish-speaking callers can dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips can also be submitted online at the CrimeStoppers website or via Twitter @NYPDTips.