An ex-NYPD officer accused of fatally stabbing a jogger in Brooklyn had previously been discharged from the Marines for psychological unfitness, according to reports.
Sayed Mohassib, 27, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence, and criminal possession of a weapon in the death of Katie Suarez, 28. The attack occurred on October 30 near Bay 17th Street and Shore Parkway in Bath Beach, New York. Suarez had been training for the New York City Marathon.
According to the New York Post, Mohassib told officers he had no recollection of the attack, stating he woke up covered in blood with the murder weapon in his possession. Investigators found Suarez's blood splattered on the walls of Mohassib's apartment, and he admitted to attempting to clean it, prosecutors revealed during his arraignment.
Mohassib served briefly with the NYPD before his discharge from the Marines. He was later denied re-entry into the police force and subsequently worked as a teacher's aide at PS 200 in Bensonhurst. The New York City Department of Education has confirmed his suspension and stated it will pursue termination of his employment.
Suarez was declared brain dead following the stabbing, and her family consented to organ donation. She was able to save five lives through the donation of her pancreas, liver, kidneys, and heart.
Her mother, Yasira Suarez, expressed devastation over her daughter's death, calling her an angel. Suarez's father discovered her critically injured near the scene. The attack took place along a popular waterfront promenade used by locals for recreation.
Mohassib was ordered held in custody and is scheduled to return to court on November 10.