The suspect in Thursday’s stabbing incidents on New York City’s Upper West Side faces charges, including attempted murder as a hate crime. The two victims represent communities that seek improved safety measures.
Charges Filed
Raul Morales, aged 51, has been charged with attempted murder as a hate crime, assault as a hate crime, and criminal possession of a weapon for attacking Moshe Grunhaus. Grunhaus is a 50-year-old Jewish man. Additionally, Morales faces charges of criminal possession of a weapon, attempted murder, and assault for the attack on a 57-year-old Asian man. However, this instance was not classified as a hate crime. Both victims are expected to recover.
Incident Details
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch reported that the suspect allegedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the assaults. Morales lived near the attack location, and authorities executed a search warrant at his residence. Items retrieved included a laptop and books like the Quran and a book on Che Guevara, though ownership is uncertain. Morales shared the apartment with others, according to reports.
A neighbor stated Morales was uncommunicative, even when greeted. Although Morales has no documented mental health history with the NYPD, initial findings hint at possible mental health implications. His prior criminal record indicates two open drug-related arrests from 1991 and five sealed arrests.
Community Reaction
Rabbi Yosie Levine of the Jewish Center described Grunhaus as a dedicated community member. Grunhaus had visited the synagogue Thursday for prayers just before the attack occurred close by. Levine expressed disbelief at the proximity of the incident to the synagogue.
During a hospital visit on Friday morning, Levine found Grunhaus alert and surrounded by friends and family. Levine remarked, “In my 22 years as a rabbi, I have not before visited a stab victim or a hate crime victim in the hospital. This incident has significantly impacted a person’s life, and it must not continue.” He noted Grunhaus recently relocated to Florida and was in town momentarily.
Report contributed by Alice Gainer.