New York police have arrested a 51-year-old man after two separate stabbing attacks near Central Park left two men injured, with investigators examining whether the incidents were motivated by hate.
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The attacks took place on Thursday in Manhattan, where the victims, identified by police as an Asian man and a Jewish man, were stabbed in separate incidents within the same area. Both men were taken to hospital and are expected to recover from their injuries.
The suspect, identified as Raul Morales, was taken into custody by officers shortly after the attacks. Authorities said detectives are continuing to investigate the motive behind the assaults.
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said preliminary witness and victim statements alleged that the suspect shouted “Allahu Akbar” during both attacks. She stressed that investigators are reviewing all available evidence to determine whether the stabbings meet the legal threshold for a hate crime.
Police also said there is currently no known connection between the suspect and either victim, nor any link between the two victims themselves. Officials added that Morales has no documented history of psychiatric illness in New York Police Department records.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the attacks, calling them hateful and unacceptable. However, he noted that the initial investigation suggested mental health issues may have played a role in the suspect’s actions. Authorities have not confirmed a motive and said the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident prompted a significant police response around Central Park as investigators gathered evidence and interviewed witnesses. Law enforcement officials urged the public to avoid speculation while detectives continue examining the circumstances surrounding the attacks.
The case has renewed attention on public safety and the investigation of bias-related crimes in New York City. Police said additional charges could be considered depending on the findings of the investigation and any further evidence collected.
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Authorities have assured residents that there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public, while emphasising that the investigation remains active and that all possible motives, including hate crime allegations and mental health factors, are being carefully assessed.