Central Park random attacks: Victims punched, choked and bitten, NYPD says
2 men randomly attacked in Central Park by same suspect: police
Police have arrested a suspect in connection with two separate, random attacks in Central Park that occurred early Monday morning. FOX 5 NY's Antwan Lewis has the latest.
NEW YORK - Police have arrested a suspect in connection with two separate, random attacks in Central Park that occurred early Monday morning. The two victims were taken to the hospital but are expected to be OK.
What we know:
The first attack happened between 1:20 a.m. and 1:29 a.m. near West 62nd Street and West Drive, where police say an 18-year-old man was punched and choked by a suspect.
(Photo by: Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Around 1:27 a.m., officers responded to a second assault near West 93rd Street and West Drive. Police said a 37-year-old man was attacked and bitten on the ear before the suspect fled.
Both victims were transported to Mount Sinai Morningside in stable condition, according to the NYPD.
Following the two assaults, police were able to locate the suspect and make an arrest. David Luciano, 27, is in custody.
Luciano, who has no known address, is charged with two counts of criminal obstruction of breathing, two counts of assault, and one count of petit larceny, officials said. Police say he is currently undergoing a psych evaluation.
Central Park crime
Though most people told FOX 5 NY they generally feel safe in Central Park, the incidents have left some nearby residents concerned.
According to NYPD data, there have been several incidents reported in Central Park this year between January and June.
- Robberies: 2
- Felony Assaults: 7
- Grand Larcenies: 8
- Rapes: 1
According to the NYPD's Compstat, Crime in the 22nd Precinct, where Central Park is located, is down by 36%, though felony assaults are up by 18%