A graphic video of a "vicious" subway assault is thought to be of an unreported attack from November, Chief of Detectives Dermot Shea said Wednesday, one day after the NYPD released the clip asking for tips in the case.
The video, which was sent to the NYPD, shows a man sitting on the subway being punched and kicked repeatedly in the head. The suspects continue to attack the victim even after he appears to lose consciousness.
“If you have any information at all about this vicious attack, please contact @NYPDTips 800-577-TIPS (8477) all calls are anonymous #YourCityYourCall,” Shea tweeted on Tuesday along with a clip from the video. Tips can also be submitted online via the CrimeStoppers website or text at 274637.
Investigators believe they’ve now identified the victim, a 22-year-old man with ties to the Bronx, after interviewing several family members, Shea said at a news conference Wednesday. The man was treated at a hospital for his injuries and has since recovered, according to Shea.
"He did suffer significant injuries — again never reported to police — some broken teeth, some pretty bad bruising, obviously I think a concussion from what I saw on that video," he said. "I listened to [the video] with the audio … What you heard was sickening, and I say that because you hear people joking about striking another human being."
Police are looking to interview the victim, who is believed to be living out of the state.
The motive behind the attack and why it wasn’t reported remain part of the ongoing investigation, and Shea said it was too soon to say whether it was related to gang activity.
"Until we speak to that individual, we will have a better idea of what started the dispute," Shea said.
With Anthony M. DeStefano and Alison Fox
