New York City, NY – A late-night attack in the heart of Times Square left an 18-year-old with a facial slash after a disturbing encounter with a stranger who allegedly asked him if he was part of a gang, according to NYPD officials and police sources.
Incident in the Heart of Times Square
The violent episode unfolded around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday in front of the 3 Times Square skyscraper on Seventh Avenue near West 43rd Street, a location usually bustling with tourists even in the early morning hours.
According to authorities, the unidentified attacker approached the teen and questioned him about gang affiliation, asking if he “belonged to a gang.” It remains unclear whether the victim responded before the situation escalated into violence.
Moments later, the suspect slashed the victim across the face with what police described as a “cutting instrument.”
Immediate Police Response and Victim’s Condition
Officers from the New York Police Department quickly arrived at the scene following reports of the assault. The teen, who suffered a deep laceration to his face, was transported to Mount Sinai West Hospital, where he was treated for his injuries.
Authorities confirmed to The Post that he remains in stable condition, and the wound, while serious, is not considered life-threatening.
Description of the Suspect
Late on Tuesday, the NYPD released surveillance footage showing the suspect walking down the sidewalk moments before the attack.
He is described as a man with long dreadlocks, wearing a black hoodie pulled tightly over his head and carrying a distinct red backpack. Investigators believe he fled the scene on foot immediately after the assault.
Anyone with information about the suspect or the attack is urged to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives from the Midtown South Precinct are investigating the motive behind the attack. While gang-related questioning sparked the incident, police have not confirmed whether the slashing was tied to any actual gang activity.
Sources say authorities are reviewing nearby security camera footage and interviewing witnesses in hopes of identifying the suspect and understanding what led to the seemingly unprovoked assault.
The attack adds to a series of concerning incidents in Times Square, an area that continues to draw millions of visitors each year but has also seen sporadic outbreaks of violence in recent months.
Call for Public Assistance
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the Times Square slashing to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit tips online.
Police emphasized that all calls remain confidential and that community cooperation plays a crucial role in helping them keep the city safe.
What do you think about safety in Times Square? Do you believe enough is being done to prevent violent attacks in public spaces? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
