Seven people allegedly jumped a 20-year-old man on a Washington Heights sidewalk, roughed him up and walked off with his cash and belongings, according to police.
The incident happened on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m. outside 1386 Saint Nicholas Avenue. Police say the group approached the victim, demanded to know what was in his pockets, punched him and took property and cash totaling roughly $280 before taking off on foot. A wanted alert went out on February 22 seeking help identifying those involved.
NYPD Crime Stoppers Posts Wanted Alert
In a post from NYPD Crime Stoppers, investigators say the seven individuals punched the victim throughout the body and stole cash and other property totaling approximately $280 before fleeing on foot. The social media alert includes images and a brief description of the people officers are trying to identify and asks anyone with information to contact investigators.
How To Report Tips
The city's Crime Stoppers program says callers who provide information that leads to an arrest can be eligible for a reward of up to $3,500, and tips may be submitted anonymously by calling 1-800-577-TIPS or by messaging @NYPDTips. Per the city's Crime Stoppers page, rewards are administered through the Police Foundation and the program accepts phone, DM and internet tips for anonymous submissions.
Where It Happened And Who Covers It
The incident was reported as occurring within the boundaries of the NYPD's 34th Precinct, which serves Washington Heights and Inwood, and that precinct is handling the investigation. Residents with non-emergency information or concerns can find community affairs contact numbers and precinct details on the NYPD's 34th Precinct page.
Neighborhood Context
St. Nicholas Avenue has been the scene of other violent incidents recently; Hoodline reported on a separate stabbing earlier this month in front of 285 St. Nicholas Avenue. Police and neighborhood groups say witness accounts and video footage often make the difference in identifying suspects, which is why Crime Stoppers is amplifying this alert.
If you witnessed the Jan. 20 assault or have video footage, NYPD Crime Stoppers asks you to DM @NYPDTips or call 1-800-577-TIPS; callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for the posted reward, per the city's Crime Stoppers program.
