Early evening at a neighborhood park turned violent when, according to police, a 9-year-old boy was punched several times inside Grant Park in the Bronx on April 17 around 6 p.m. Officers say the attacker also struck the child with a cable charger, leaving the boy with facial lacerations.
EMS took the child to BronxCare Health System, where he was treated for his injuries and is expected to recover. The suspect ran off toward Sheridan Avenue and has not been caught, authorities say. Investigators are now asking anyone who saw what happened or who recognizes the suspect to get in touch with police.
What police say
According to News 12 Bronx, the NYPD reports that the suspect punched the boy multiple times in the face, then hit him with a cable charger before fleeing the scene. The outlet notes that EMS brought the child to BronxCare Health System and that he is expected to recover from his injuries.
Police say the attacker took off on Sheridan Avenue after leaving the park. They are urging anyone who was nearby around 6 p.m. or who may have seen the suspect running from the area to contact them.
Where it happened
Grant Park is a small neighborhood green space along East 170th Street between Sheridan Avenue and Morris Avenue in the Claremont section of the Bronx, according to NYC Parks. The park includes a playground and basketball courts and is a regular hangout for local families and students from nearby schools.
How to help
The NYPD's Crime Stoppers program is asking anyone with information about the assault to come forward. Tips can be shared by calling 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or by submitting an anonymous tip through its website, per NYPD Crime Stoppers. The department notes that tips can also be texted to 274637 (CRIMES) using the code TIP577.
Investigation status
As of the initial reports there had been no arrests in the case, News 12 Bronx reports. Investigators are asking anyone who may have cellphone video from Grant Park or who saw the suspect running along Sheridan Avenue to contact Crime Stoppers.
