Two Stabbings on Upper West Side; Suspect in Custody

Both victims, adult men, were hospitalized in stable condition and are expected to survive.

On April 30, 2025, at approximately 1:31 p.m., two stabbings occurred in Manhattan's Upper West Side, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD). The suspect, Raul Morales, 51, is in custody.

Incident Details

The first stabbing took place near West 84th Street and Central Park West, where a 57-year-old Asian man was attacked.

The second stabbing occurred approximately two blocks away, near West 86th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, where a 50-year-old Jewish man was attacked.

According to NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, based on victim and witness statements, Morales yelled "Allahu Akbar" during both attacks. One witness, Nava Silton, reported that eyewitnesses heard the suspect use the phrase and a screwdriver. Another witness reported seeing a knife sticking out of one victim. The NYPD stated that a knife or screwdriver may have been used.

There is no known link between the suspect and either victim, nor between the two victims.

Arrest and Investigation

A bystander, described by Commissioner Tisch as a good Samaritan, led police to where Morales was hiding. He was arrested in connection with the attacks.

The motive remains under investigation. Commissioner Tisch stated that while Morales has no known mental health history with the NYPD, initial investigation suggests mental health may have been a factor. The NYPD is evaluating whether the incident constitutes a hate crime. No other suspects are being sought.

Official Responses

Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated he was briefed on the stabbings, expressed gratitude that the victims are stable, and thanked police. He noted that the NYPD's initial investigation suggests mental health may have been a factor and that they are evaluating the stabbings as potential hate crimes.

Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the attack, stating:

"The strength of New York has always been our ability to live together across every faith and background."