A 45-year-old man has suffered severe burns to his face and arms after being deliberately set on fire in a horrifying early-morning attack in Times Square, Manhattan.
The NYPD Crime Scene Unit is investigating the gruesome incident, which occurred at 3:55am on Sunday, near Broadway and West 41st Street, just steps from one of the world’s busiest pedestrian hubs.
The incident occurred just hours before participants in the NYC Half Marathon passed nearby, raising further concerns about public safety in the heart of the city.
Echoes of Previous Arson Attack
The attack comes less than three months after 61-year-old Debrina Kawam, a homeless woman, was burned to death in a separate arson incident on a New York subway train. That case, which also shocked the city, remains a chilling reminder of the growing concerns over violent crime involving fire.
Ongoing Investigation
NYPD is continuing its investigation and urges anyone with information to come forward. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras is being reviewed to help identify and track the suspect.
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If you witnessed the incident or have any relevant information, please contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com.