The New York Police Department's hate crimes unit is seeking assistance from the public to identify a suspect involved in an antisemitic attack on a Jewish man in lower Manhattan. The incident occurred on May 5 at approximately 1 p.m. near Whitehall Street and Stone Street, where a 39-year-old man was attacked from behind and had his yarmulke slapped off his head. Police reported that the victim's yarmulke fell to the ground, but no injuries were sustained. The suspect fled the scene following the incident.
The hate crimes task force is investigating the attack and has released images of the suspect. According to the police, the suspect has a dark complexion, short or possibly shaved hair, and a moderate build. At the time of the attack, he was wearing a gray camouflage tracksuit, a black flat-brim snapback hat, and white sneakers. He was also seen carrying a black and gray crossbody bag and a black plastic bag.
The attack took place at 1 Whitehall Street, which is home to a Duane Reade pharmacy and a post office. The NYPD encourages anyone with information about the incident to contact their Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or, for Spanish speakers, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/ or on X @NYPDTips.