The New York Police Department's Hate Crimes Task Force is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a suspect involved in an antisemitic attack that occurred on May 5 in Lower Manhattan.
The incident took place around 1 p.m. near Whitehall Street and Stone Street when an unidentified man approached a 39-year-old Jewish man from behind and slapped his yarmulke, or skullcap, off his head.
The victim sustained no physical injuries, but the yarmulke fell to the ground. The suspect fled the scene on foot immediately following the unprovoked assault.
Authorities released images of the suspect on Tuesday evening. He is described as having a dark complexion, short hair, and a medium build. At the time of the attack, he was reportedly wearing a gray camouflage tracksuit, a black flat-brim snapback hat, and white sneakers. He was also seen carrying a black and gray crossbody bag and a black plastic bag.
The attack occurred at 1 Whitehall Street, an address that houses a Duane Reade pharmacy and a post office.
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or provide information via the Crime Stoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/. Tips can also be submitted by messaging @NYPDTips on X.