NEW YORK — A Jewish man was attacked in Central Park by a suspect who screamed “Kanye 2024″ and antisemitic slurs as he jumped his victim in what police are investigating as a hate crime.
The 63-year-old victim was walking through the park near Terrace Drive and East Drive about 7:30 p.m. Wednesday when the assailant, described as a white man in his 40s, crept up and struck him from behind.
“F--- You Jew!” the man screamed along with “Kanye 2024!” referencing rapper Kanye West’s recent antisemitic statements that cost him millions in endorsement deals. Adidas was among the many popular clothing brands that cut ties with West, who goes by the name Ye, following his repeated antisemitic comments in interviews and online.
Thursday’s unprovoked attack sent the victim sprawling onto the ground, where he chipped his tooth and broke his hand, police said.
The suspect, who is possibly homeless, ran off and was caught on surveillance cameras heading west on E. 72nd Street toting a bicycle with a trailer full of personal items, along with a sign that read “Hungry Disabled,” police said.
No arrests have been made. The New York Police Department’s Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating.
The victim took himself to an area hospital where he was treated and released.
Police released images of the assailant in the hopes someone recognizes him. At the time of the attack he was wearing a brown jacket, beige pants, white sneakers and a multi-colored hat.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to call NYPD Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.
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