The New York Police Department is seeking public assistance to identify an assailant who stabbed Katie Suarez, 28, in the neck while she was training for the New York City Marathon. The attack occurred Friday evening near Bay 17th Street and Shore Parkway in Bath Beach, Brooklyn.
Suarez was found bleeding on a grassy area by her father and was transported to NYU Langone Hospital in critical condition. Police sources reported that she was declared brain dead on Saturday and remains on life support. The NYPD is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest.
Investigators are appealing for witnesses who may have seen Suarez between 7:56 p.m. and 8:12 p.m. on Friday along the eastbound bike path of the Belt Parkway, specifically between Bay 8th Street and Bay 17th Street. A photograph of Suarez has been released as part of the ongoing appeal.
The circumstances surrounding the stabbing remain unclear, and it is unknown whether Suarez knew her attacker or if the attack was random. Disturbing photographs from the scene showed a significant police presence as investigators examined the area, with blood visible on a railing near where the assault took place.
Neighbors have spoken of Suarez, describing her as a gentle, hardworking, and kind individual. She worked as a bank teller, where colleagues knew her as a professional and dedicated employee. One neighbor told The New York Post that she was a "very professional, very kind" and "very soft spoken girl, very nice," adding that her treatment of others left a lasting impression.
Suarez and her partner were described by a neighbor as considerate people who regularly walked in the neighborhood and treated others with respect. They were characterized as having "good character" and appearing "very family-oriented."
The attack occurred along a waterfront promenade in Bath Beach, a residential area in southern Brooklyn frequented by locals for exercise and recreation. The paths overlook Gravesend Bay and are part of a network of routes along the Brooklyn coastline.
The organizer of the New York City Marathon expressed sadness over the attack, stating, "We were sad to hear of this horrible attack-our hearts are with her family and the running community."
The incident has reportedly shattered the sense of security for residents who use the area for evening runs and other activities.
