A lone assailant went on a stabbing spree through the streets of New York City on Monday morning, killing two men and critically wounding a woman. The attacks were unprovoked, with the suspect, a 51-year-old homeless man with a history of arrests and mental health issues, randomly stabbing victims with a knife. The assailant was apprehended by police after a taxi driver witnessed one of the attacks and called for help.
The victims, a 36-year-old man and a 68-year-old man, were not immediately identified. The first victim was attacked at a construction site where he was working, while the second victim was fishing when he was stabbed. The suspect was captured near the United Nations building after the final stabbing incident.
The attacks come at a time when violent crime is a major concern in both New York City and national politics. Despite the recent incidents, the overall number of murders in New York City has been declining over the years. As investigations into the stabbings continue, there are questions as to why the suspect was out on the streets despite his criminal record and mental health issues. Mayor Adams thanked a vigilant New Yorker who alerted police to the suspect’s whereabouts, leading to his swift arrest.
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