The NYPD’s investigation into the violent, unprovoked punching spree in Manhattan continues as a 33-year-old woman was punched in the face by a stranger in Union Square last month.
Police say the victim was walking in front of 32 Union Square East on March 20 at approximately 4:30 p.m. when the suspect approached her from behind and then punched her in the face with a closed fist, all before fleeing northbound on Park Avenue, law enforcement authorities said.
The victim sustained minor injuries, including redness and pain on her nose, but refused medical attention at the scene, police said.
There have been several reports recently of random sucker-punch attacks on women in the borough, including at least 12 confirmed reports in the Manhattan South area, police sources said. On Wednesday, police officials said they do not believe the violent spree targeting women is the result of a TikTok trend, which has been suggested.
The victim reported the assault to police at the 13th Precinct station house near Union Square.
Police released images of the suspect. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with any information regarding the assaults, or who may be a victim of an assault, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (for Spanish speakers, dial 888-57-PISTA). You can also submit tips online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter) @NYPDTips.
All calls and messages are kept confidential.
