A man has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including assault and menacing, after a Christmas Eve knife attack at Manhattan’s Grand Central subway station. The attack left a 42-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman injured.
Details of the Incident
The attack occurred at 10:15 p.m. on Tuesday when the suspect allegedly slashed the man’s wrist and inflicted a neck injury on the woman. Both victims were taken to Bellevue Hospital, where they are in stable condition, according to police.
Authorities arrested the suspect on charges of assault, reckless endangerment, menacing, harassment, disorderly conduct, and possession of a weapon. It is unclear who will represent him in court.
Victim Recounts the Attack
The 26-year-old victim told The New York Post that she had just exited the No. 4 train and was on her way to work when the assailant confronted her. She described being punched to the ground while the attacker repeatedly yelled, “What’s your problem?” before lunging at her with a small knife and cutting her throat.
Concerns About Subway Safety
The attack comes amid heightened concerns over subway crime, particularly following a separate incident earlier this week. On Sunday, a man was arrested for allegedly setting a woman on fire on a subway car, resulting in her death.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams acknowledged the recent surge in violence and linked the suspect in the Grand Central attack to a history of mental illness.
Context of Recent Subway Violence
Just hours before the Christmas Eve attack, Sebastian Zapeta, 33, appeared in Brooklyn criminal court facing two murder charges for the subway fire incident. Federal immigration officials identified Zapeta as a Guatemalan citizen who entered the U.S. illegally.
Zapeta, currently held at the Rikers Island jail complex, is scheduled to return to court on Friday. His lawyer has not requested bail, and he has not entered a plea.
Authorities Urged to Address Rising Subway Crime
The Christmas Eve attack and other recent violent incidents have intensified scrutiny on subway safety in New York City. Local officials and residents are calling for stronger measures to address public safety concerns, especially during the busy holiday season.
The suspect in the Grand Central attack remains in custody as investigations continue. Both victims are expected to recover from their injuries.
