Two men were hospitalized following a stabbing incident near Central Park on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The New York Police Department (NYPD) informed Newsweek of the incident, noting that a person of interest is currently in custody.
The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, based in New York, stated on social media that the victims were “visibly Jewish.” The victims, aged 57 and 50, suffered stab wounds to their torsos near West 84th Street and Central Park West. NYPD confirmed this information to Newsweek via email. Both men were transported to Mount Sinai Hospital for treatment.
According to reports from CBS News’ Anne Schecter, one of the men was wearing a kippah.
The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation expressed concerns on social media, emphasizing that “Jewish Americans should never have to fear being attacked because of who they are or how they identify.” The foundation urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and to enhance protection for Jewish communities, including schools, synagogues, and other institutions. They stressed the importance of safety for all Americans, free from fear and hatred.
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin shared her reaction on X, describing the incident as an “antisemitic stabbing.” Menin expressed her concern and anger regarding the attack. She acknowledged the fear prevalent in the Jewish community and reiterated the right of every New Yorker to feel safe, regardless of faith or identity. Menin thanked the NYPD for their prompt response and offered prayers for the victims and their families.
The attack took place on Tisha B’Av, a significant day of fasting and mourning in the Jewish calendar.
New York City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, co-chair of NYC’s Bipartisan Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, reported on X that the attacker was reportedly shouting “Allahu Akbar,” an Arabic phrase meaning “God is the greatest” or “God is greater.” Vernikov also mentioned that the attacker used a screwdriver during the attack.
Newsweek has reached out to City Hall for a comment on this situation.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.