A 51-year-old man was arrested Thursday after allegedly stabbing two men—one Jewish, one Asian—on Manhattan’s Upper West Side while shouting “Allahu akbar,” according to police and witnesses. Both victims are expected to survive.
Attack Details and Arrest
The suspect, identified as Raul Morales, was taken into custody following separate attacks near a synagogue and a church. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the arrests and said detectives are investigating whether the stabbings constitute a hate crime.
Witnesses reported Morales yelled “Allahu akbar” during both assaults. One victim, a Jewish man in his 50s, was stabbed outside a Modern Orthodox synagogue after attending afternoon prayers for Tisha B’Av, a Jewish fast day. A bystander eating lunch on nearby church steps told a synagogue staff member he saw the attack and heard the assailant shout the phrase before walking away.
Victims’ Conditions and Police Response
The Jewish victim pulled the screwdriver from his chest after the attack, fearing further injury if he fell on it. Nava Silton, youth director at the Jewish Center, visited him in the hospital and said she was surprised by the severity of the wound. Both victims were treated at Mount Sinai-St. Luke’s Hospital.
Tisch stated Morales has no known mental-health history with police, but investigators are exploring whether mental health played a role. No prior connection between Morales and the victims has been established.
What Happens Next
The NYPD continues to evaluate motive and evidence. Mayor Eric Adams said he was briefed on the “horrifying stabbings” and expressed relief the victims are stable. Authorities have not released further details about Morales’ background or potential charges.
