In a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of urban violence, Raquan El, 37, was indicted for an unprovoked attack on a pregnant woman in Chelsea earlier this May, as announced by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. The incident that left the city reeling occurred on May 6, near the intersection of West 18th Street and 6th Avenue, and has now led to charges of Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree against El.
"We will not tolerate New Yorkers being assaulted," stated District Attorney Bragg in an announcement reported by Manhattan DA's Office. His words underscored the shock of the attack against a "vulnerable New Yorker—an unsuspecting pregnant woman who was a complete stranger to him." Bragg wished the victim a speedy recovery, as she endured swelling to the back of her head, and substantial pain to her head, neck, and shoulders for several days afterward.
According to court documents and statements on the record, El approached the woman with no apparent provocation and struck her on the head with a metal pipe. After calls to 911 by the victim and eyewitnesses, law enforcement promptly apprehended El carrying a weapon matching the description, just blocks away from the scene. Assistant D.A. Allie Watson will handle the prosecution, under the guidance of Assistant D.A. Jessica Lynn and Executive D.A. Lisa DelPizzo, with Trial Preparation Assistant Phillip Marks providing additional support.
The investigation benefited from the prompt response of the NYPD, with particular acknowledgment given to Officer Shane Acosta and colleagues from the 13th Precinct. The victim, thankfully, received immediate medical attention.
