Police Seek Help to ID Man Behind Violent Anti-Asian Attack in NYC

The assault took place at the corner of West 16th Street and 7th Avenue in Chelsea last Sunday around 1:15 p.m. while the 40-year-old unnamed victim was getting out of his parked car, according to PIX11.

The man in question reportedly approached the victim from behind unprovoked and started spewing anti-Asian slurs. He then punched the man multiple times in the face and proceeded to choke him. He ran in an unknown direction afterward.

The victim reportedly sustained bruises and cuts on his face but refused medical attention.

In the surveillance photo released by the police last Thursday, the assailant is described as a short, black-haired man, estimated between 20-30 years old; around 5-feet-8-inches (173 centimeters) in height and weighs approximately 180-200 pounds (82 kilograms to 91 kilograms).

He was last seen wearing a “gray hooded sweater over a brown shirt with a red and yellow image in front.” The man was also wearing “oversized khakis, black sneakers and a light-colored face mask under his chin.”

Police are investigating the attack as a hate crime, the New York Daily News reported.

Anyone who might have information about the man can contact NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or send tips through their website or on Twitter.

Featured Image via NYPD, Google Maps