New York City police are searching for five suspects wanted in a “gang assault” on former New York Gov. David Paterson and his 20-year-old stepson on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, according to officials.
The attack, which unfolded around 8:35 p.m. Friday by 96th Street and 2nd Avenue, began as a “verbal altercation” between the suspects and the 70-year-old former governor and his stepson, the NYPD said.
In this March 8, 2010, file photo, New York Governor David Paterson sits during a town hall meeting at Borough Hall in Brooklyn, New York.
Mario Tama/Getty Images, FILE
Former Governor of New York David Paterson and his 20-year-old son are injured by five suspects at approximately 8:30 p.m. in front of 1871 2nd Avenue on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 4, 2024.
Kyle Mazza/Shutterstock
The suspects had had “a previous interaction” with the stepson, Paterson’s spokesperson told ABC New York station WABC, noting that the attack took place near the victims’ home.
The suspects hit the victims in the face and body, police said.
Paterson and his stepson managed fight off the attackers, the spokesperson said, and the suspects fled on foot, according to police.
The New York City Police Department is asking for the public’s help to locate suspects in an assault on Manhattan’s Upper East Side on Oct. 4, 2024.
NYPD
Paterson and his stepson were both taken to the hospital in stable condition, police said, and they’ve since been released, the spokesperson said.
Paterson, a Democrat, served as governor of New York from 2008 to 2010. Paterson was New York’s first African American governor and the nation’s first legally blind governor.
In this Jan. 1, 2023, file photo, former Governor David Paterson attends the Inauguration ceremony for New York statewide officials at Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, New York.
Lev Radin/Sipa USA via AP, FILE
Paterson and his wife “are thankful for the quick response time from the police and the outpouring of support they have received,” Paterson’s spokesperson said, adding, “The Governor’s only request is that people refrain from attempting to use an unfortunate act of violence for their own personal or political gain.”
“Governor Paterson’s main concern today is Kodai Senga and the New York Mets, but we will provide any additional updates as necessary,” the spokesperson added.
The NYPD asks anyone with information to call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS or submit information online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org.
Former New York Governor David Paterson’s stepson was recently assaulted on an Upper East Side street, sparking concern and outrage among the community. The incident occurred on a busy street in broad daylight, leaving many residents shocked and concerned about the safety of their neighborhood.
According to reports, Paterson’s stepson was walking down the street when he was approached by a group of individuals who began to harass and physically assault him. The attackers reportedly punched and kicked him before fleeing the scene, leaving the victim with minor injuries.
The assault has raised questions about the level of safety in the Upper East Side neighborhood, which is known for its affluent residents and upscale shops and restaurants. Many residents are now calling for increased police presence in the area to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
Governor Paterson has spoken out about the attack, expressing his shock and concern for his stepson’s well-being. He has called for a full investigation into the incident and has urged anyone with information to come forward to help bring the perpetrators to justice.
In response to the incident, local authorities have increased patrols in the area and are working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the assault. They are also urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help prevent further incidents from occurring.
Overall, the assault on Former Governor Paterson’s stepson has highlighted the need for increased safety measures in the Upper East Side neighborhood. Residents are hopeful that with increased police presence and community involvement, they can work together to ensure the safety and security of their community.
