Suspect Charged with Murder in Times Square Attack
A suspect was charged with murder after a seemingly random broad daylight attack in which he strangled a woman in front of a Times Square hotel, according to police.
Details of the Attack
The alleged incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. on October 29, as the victim was walking on West 46th Street near Eighth Avenue in midtown Manhattan. That’s when the suspect, 33-year-old Jaheem Warren, launched the surprising and brutal daytime attack in which he strangled the woman.
Victim’s Identity and Condition
The victim, identified by police as Leslie Torres, was left unconscious on the sidewalk in front of the Riu Plaza New York Times Square Hotel, police said, a bustling part of the popular tourist area. Staff at the hotel found Torres and she was rushed to Mt. Sinai Hospital.
She suffered critical injuries as a result of the attack. The 23-year-old, who had been living in a nearby shelter, died from her injuries on November 4.
Investigation and Arrest
Police said they identified Warren based on video from security cameras on the block and were able to track him down in New Jersey, where he lives. Warren was arrested on Tuesday and faces charges including second-degree murder as well as first- and second-degree assault and strangulation, police said.
Denial of Attack
As he was led away from the stationhouse by police, Warren denied attacking the victim, simply stating “no” when asked if he had assaulted her. Attorney information for Warren was not immediately available.
Random Attack
Police said the attack appeared to be completely random, adding that Torres and Warren did not know each other. No further details of what led up to the deadly attack were released.
Crime Statistics
According to NYPD crime statistics, the Midtown North precinct (which covers most of midtown, the Theater District and Hell’s Kitchen) has seen an increase in most violent crimes in 2024 compared to the previous year. Those stats include murder, rape, robbery, and felony assault.
Conclusion
The Times Square attack is a tragic reminder of the importance of community safety and the need for increased vigilance in our public spaces. The NYPD is working tirelessly to keep our streets safe, and we hope that justice will be served in this case.
FAQs
Q: What happened in the Times Square attack?
A: A 33-year-old suspect, Jaheem Warren, allegedly strangled a 23-year-old woman, Leslie Torres, in broad daylight in front of a Times Square hotel.
Q: What were the victim’s injuries?
A: The victim suffered critical injuries and died from her injuries on November 4.
Q: How was the suspect identified and arrested?
A: The suspect was identified based on video from security cameras and was tracked down in New Jersey, where he lives. He was arrested on Tuesday and faces multiple charges.
Q: Did the suspect know the victim?
A: No, the suspect and victim did not know each other, and the attack appeared to be completely random.
