Heartbreaking NYC Crime: Construction Worker, Fisherman, and Woman Fatally Stabbed!
A suspect in New York City has been arrested following what officials described as a “vicious” and “unprovoked” stabbing spree that left three people dead on Monday. The attack sparked criticism from Mayor Eric Adams, who condemned the criminal justice system for failing to protect the city’s residents.
The stabbing spree began in Chelsea early Monday morning and claimed the lives of one woman and two men. Authorities say the suspect was stopped hours later with the assistance of a cab driver, a British tourist, and a police officer.
“These attacks appear to be unprovoked. He just walked up to them and stabbed them with a knife,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. According to Kenny, there was no clear motive behind the attacks, as no words were exchanged, and no property was taken.
Mayor Adams expressed outrage over the incident, stating, “Today, we have three innocent New Yorkers, just going about their lives, who were victims of a terrible, terrible assault. It is a clear example of how our criminal justice and mental health systems continue to fail New Yorkers.”
The suspect, identified as 51-year-old Ramon Rivera, is reportedly a mentally ill homeless man with a history of arrests. Rivera was taken into custody carrying two large kitchen knives covered in blood. He had been released from Rikers Island just a month prior. Rivera also has prior arrests in Ohio and Florida, in addition to his record in New York City.
The spree began around 8:20 a.m. EST when Rivera allegedly stabbed a 36-year-old construction worker in the stomach in Chelsea. A nearby doorman described the scene, recalling how a woman who witnessed the attack screamed in terror while holding her child.
Later that morning, Rivera allegedly struck again near the East River, killing a 68-year-old man who was fishing. Hours after that, a 36-year-old woman was fatally stabbed multiple times near the United Nations building at East 42nd Street and First Avenue. She succumbed to her injuries at a hospital later that day.
Police say Rivera moved between the attack locations without using public transit or a vehicle, which further highlights the unpredictability of his movements.
In October, Rivera had pleaded not guilty to a grand larceny charge after being accused of stealing a $1,500 bowl from a store in Tribeca. He was released on bail without conditions.
Authorities are now investigating Monday’s stabbings to determine the charges Rivera will face.