New York City, USA – Two men were stabbed on Thursday afternoon in separate attacks on Manhattan's Upper West Side, prompting a major response from the New York Police Department (NYPD). Law enforcement sources say investigators are examining whether the incident was a possible hate crime.
According to preliminary information, the first attack occurred near West 86th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, where a 40-year-old man was reportedly approached from behind and stabbed in the back. The suspect then allegedly walked several blocks toward Central Park West, where a 50-year-old man was stabbed in the chest.
Sources indicate that one of the victims is Jewish and was reportedly walking to a synagogue at the time of the attack. The identity of the second victim has not been publicly released.
Both victims were treated by Hatzalah emergency medical volunteers before being transported to a nearby hospital. Officials say one of the victims is in critical condition, although authorities have not specified which individual sustained the more severe injuries.
Law enforcement sources also state that the suspect allegedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the attacks. Investigators are working to determine the motive, and the incident is being reviewed as a possible hate crime. Authorities have not yet announced any formal charges related to that aspect of the investigation.
The NYPD confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, and detectives continue to gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses.
Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation remains active. More information, including the suspect's identity and potential charges, is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.