Two men were hospitalized after being stabbed near Central Park on Manhattan’s Upper West Side on Thursday, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD). A person of interest is now in custody as the investigation continues.
The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation reported on social media that the victims appeared “visibly Jewish.” The men, aged 57 and 50, suffered stab wounds to their torsos near West 84th Street and Central Park West around 1:31 p.m. Both were quickly taken to Mount Sinai Hospital.
“Jewish Americans should never have to fear being attacked because of who they are or how they identify,” the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation stated on X. “Authorities must conduct a thorough investigation and provide enhanced protection for Jewish neighborhoods, schools, synagogues, and community institutions.”
Anna Schecter of CBS News noted that one of the men was wearing a kippah.
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin described the incident as an “antisemitic stabbing.” She expressed her outrage on X, calling for unity in condemning antisemitism and urging accountability for those responsible.
“I am absolutely sickened and furious by what appears to be an antisemitic stabbing on the Upper West Side,” Menin stated. “We must remain united in condemning antisemitism and ensuring those responsible are held fully accountable. I thank the NYPD for its swift response in apprehending the assailant.”
The attack occurred on Tisha B’Av, a day of fasting and mourning in the Jewish calendar.
New York City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov reported that the attacker was allegedly shouting “Allahu Akbar,” and used a screwdriver as the weapon. Newsweek has reached out to City Hall for further comments.
This is a breaking news story. More updates will follow as information becomes available.