Megan Horne, a 34-year-old resident of Staten Island, has been arrested in connection with a series of anti-Muslim incidents in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. According to PIX11, the incidents occurred last week and involved victims including a 12-year-old girl who was punched in the face while wearing a hijab.
The New York City Police Department reported that the incidents began near 8902 Fifth Ave. at approximately 2:25 p.m. Horne allegedly pushed and kicked a 33-year-old woman, then attacked a 39-year-old woman attempting to board an MTA bus, and subsequently assaulted a 12-year-old girl near Fort Hamilton Parkway and 92nd Street. All three incidents occurred within about ten minutes. Authorities stated that the victims were targeted because of their Muslim faith.
Horne has been charged with hate crime assault, acting injurious to a child, and hate crime aggravated harassment, and was taken into custody yesterday. Council Member Kayla Santosuosso expressed support for the Muslim community in a statement obtained by Brooklyn Paper.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani responded to the incident on social media, condemning the attacks and highlighting the particular vulnerability of visibly Muslim women and girls. Governor Kathy Hochul also condemned the attacks and reaffirmed New York's stance against hate crimes.
The investigation is ongoing, with the 68th Precinct referring the case to the Hate Crimes Task Force. Council Member Santosuosso stated that her office will collaborate with law enforcement and community organizations to support the safety and well-being of Muslim residents as Ramadan approaches.
