Authorities are searching for a woman accused of attacking a 64-year-old man who was skateboarding along East 14th Street earlier this week. The New York Police Department (NYPD) released surveillance images on Thursday showing the female suspect fleeing the scene shortly after the incident, which left the victim with head and facial injuries.
According to investigators, the confrontation occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Monday near East 14th Street and Union Square East. The victim, who has not been identified publicly, was riding his skateboard when the woman allegedly approached him and began yelling before striking him multiple times. Witnesses described the attacker as becoming “suddenly aggressive” without apparent reason.
Victim Sustained Serious but Non-Life-Threatening Injuries
Emergency responders arrived minutes later and took the man to Bellevue Hospital, where he was treated for bruising and minor lacerations. Doctors said his injuries were not life-threatening, though he remained under observation for possible concussion symptoms.
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A nearby restaurant worker who saw the incident said the victim had been skating slowly and appeared to avoid confrontation. “She just came out of nowhere and started shouting at him,” the witness recalled. “Then she punched him and threw his skateboard into the street. It was shocking.”
Description of the Suspect
Police described the suspect as a woman between 25 and 35 years old, approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall, with shoulder-length dark hair. She was last seen wearing a light-colored hoodie, black leggings, and sneakers. Surveillance footage shows her heading eastbound toward Third Avenue after the assault.
Authorities have not determined a motive, though detectives are investigating whether the attack was random or if there had been a prior encounter between the two. The NYPD’s 13th Precinct is handling the case and has urged anyone with information to come forward.
Community Reaction
Residents and business owners around East 14th Street expressed concern that this incident highlights growing tension and unpredictable street violence in parts of Manhattan. “You just don’t expect someone that age to be assaulted like that — and for no clear reason,” said a local shop owner who often sees the elderly skateboarder in the area. “He’s a harmless guy. Everyone knows him here.”
City Councilmember Carlina Rivera, whose district includes parts of the East Village and Union Square, condemned the attack and urged residents to assist police. “No New Yorker should feel unsafe walking or skating down our streets,” Rivera said in a statement. “Violence against our senior citizens is unacceptable, and we will work closely with NYPD to ensure accountability.”
Increased Patrols and Safety Awareness
Following the incident, police announced an increase in foot patrols and community outreach in the East 14th Street corridor. Officers from the local precinct have been distributing safety flyers and reminding pedestrians and cyclists to report suspicious behavior immediately.
Captain Michael O’Hara of the 13th Precinct emphasized that such random assaults, while rare, are taken very seriously. “We’re committed to finding this suspect and ensuring our streets remain safe for New Yorkers of all ages,” O’Hara said.
Renewed Calls for Street Safety Measures
Advocates for urban safety have renewed calls for improved surveillance coverage and faster police response along major pedestrian areas. Some residents suggested reinstalling street security booths that were removed during the pandemic to improve visibility and community policing.
Community organizers also plan to hold a safety walk through East 14th Street this weekend to raise awareness about assaults involving vulnerable individuals. “Seeing an older man attacked in broad daylight is disturbing,” said Maria Santos, a local community leader. “We need more watchful eyes, better lighting, and stronger neighborhood support.”
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives continue to analyze nearby security footage and canvass businesses that may have captured clearer images of the suspect. Police said the woman may frequent the Union Square area and are exploring whether she has been involved in prior disturbances reported in recent months.
As of Thursday afternoon, no arrests have been made. The NYPD is urging anyone with information about the woman’s identity or whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS. Tips can be given anonymously, and a reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.
Community Urged to Remain Vigilant
While police continue their investigation, community leaders are reminding residents to remain alert, especially during mid-afternoon hours when pedestrian traffic peaks. Senior citizen advocates are also using the incident to highlight the importance of public empathy and intervention.
“It’s heartbreaking to think a 64-year-old was assaulted for simply doing something joyful,” said Santos. “We want the person responsible caught, but we also want a neighborhood where something like this doesn’t happen again.”
FAQ
Who was the victim?
Police have not yet released his name but confirmed he is a 64-year-old Manhattan resident known in the area for skateboarding.
When did the assault occur?
The attack took place Monday afternoon around 2:30 p.m. on East 14th Street near Union Square East.
Has the suspect been found?
As of now, the NYPD continues to search for the woman and is analyzing new surveillance footage.
How can the public help?
Anyone with information or video evidence from that period is asked to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers or the 13th Precinct directly.
