commuter

Queens Plaza Subway Attacker Convicted of Robbery and Assault

**Queens, NY** – Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the conviction of William Blount for robbery in the first degree, assault in the first degree, and other charges. Blount attacked a woman with a hammer as she entered the Queens Plaza subway station in Long Island City in 2022, stealing her tote bag.

Blount, 60, whose last known address was in Manhattan, was convicted of assault, robbery, and weapon possession. He was acquitted of attempted murder charges following a six-week trial that began on February 24, presided over by Supreme Court Justice John Zoll. Sentencing is set for May 7, with a possible sentence of up to 25 years to life in prison.

During the February 2022 incident, Blount attacked a 58-year-old woman, causing her multiple skull fractures. The victim received medical attention, including a bilateral craniectomy, and suffered a broken finger among other injuries.

Investigation led to Blount’s arrest and the recovery of a hammer and the victim’s belongings at a residence in Long Island City. Video surveillance tracked Blount’s movements, and DNA evidence linked him to the crime. The case