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Public Safety Midtown Manhattan

NYPD Investigating Anti-Asian Assault at Times Square Subway Station

Authorities are searching for a suspect who allegedly targeted a 21-year-old commuter during a verbal and physical attack on a northbound R train.

By Staff ReportPublished Aug 7, 2026, 6:56 AM
Times Sq - 42 St, New York, United States
Times Sq - 42 St, New York, United States Image by Hans Vivek rickyzden. Via Wikimedia Commons. Rights status: CC0 1.0.

The New York Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a violent hate crime that took place on July 27. According to law enforcement, the incident occurred at approximately 4:52 p.m. as a 21-year-old commuter was traveling on a northbound R train.

As the train approached the Times Square-42 St station, the suspect allegedly initiated an anti-Asian verbal tirade directed at the victim. The confrontation escalated when the individual reportedly shoved the commuter to the ground and proceeded to strike him with multiple punches and kicks. During the struggle, the victim’s glasses were broken, and he sustained a laceration to his face.

Emergency medical services transported the victim to Mount Sinai West Hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition. The case has since been referred to the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force for further investigation. This incident follows a broader trend of rising hate crimes in the city, which have seen an increase of over 9% throughout 2026.

Investigators have released a limited description of the suspect, who was last observed wearing a black hat and a black shirt featuring yellow lettering.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the suspect to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or via the department’s official social media channels. Officials have stated that all communications will remain confidential.

Where it happened

Times Square-42 St subway station

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