Authorities in New York City are actively investigating an incident where a man was allegedly set on fire near Times Square early on Sunday morning, around 4 am. The attack occurred close to West 41st Street and 7th Avenue, where police responded swiftly after noticing the 45-year-old victim engulfed in flames. They managed to extinguish the fire, and the man was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital, where he is reported to be in stable condition.
While police have not released the victim’s identity, they believe he is acquainted with the assailant, whom they are currently trying to locate. The investigation is ongoing, but officials have withheld further details regarding the case for now.
Footage captured at the scene revealed the victim walking shirtless alongside firefighters after the flames were doused. Additional images show him receiving treatment in an ambulance, exhibiting severe burns across his face, neck, chest, and arms, highlighting the severity of the attack.
This disturbing incident draws parallels to a prior case from December, where Debrina Kawam, a 57-year-old woman from New Jersey, died after being set on fire in a subway train. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, faces charges of murder and arson in connection with that case and has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors allege that he attacked Kawam while she slept on a train in Coney Island, igniting her and then fanning the flames while observing from a nearby bench.
The stark contrast between these events underscores a troubling trend of violence leading to severe injuries and loss of life in public spaces, raising concerns about safety and security within the city. As investigations unfold, local authorities continue to urge the public for any information that may assist in apprehending suspects and preventing future attacks of this nature.