In a disturbing incident at Grand Central Terminal on Christmas Day, a 36-year-old man, identified as Steven Hutcherson from the Bronx, allegedly stabbed two teenage girls while expressing racist sentiments against white people. The victims, aged 14 and 16 and visiting from South America, were enjoying a meal with their parents at Tartinery in the Grand Central Dining Concourse when the disruptive episode unfolded.
Around 11:30 a.m., Tartinery staff asked Hutcherson to leave due to his disruptive behavior. Instead of complying, he grew agitated, loudly complaining that the two girls were allowed to stay. “I want all the white people dead,” he exclaimed, expressing further derogatory remarks. Subsequently, Hutcherson reportedly brandished a knife and attacked the girls, stabbing the 16-year-old in the back, causing a nick to her lung, and the 14-year-old in the thigh. Although both victims were promptly rushed to Bellevue Hospital, their injuries are fortunately deemed non-life-threatening. As of the latest update, no additional information about their condition has been released.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority officers swiftly apprehended Hutcherson within 30 seconds of the assault. Facing felony charges of attempted murder, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon, along with a misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of a child, he may also be subject to hate crime charges due to his racially charged statements. Authorities assert that Hutcherson did not know the victims.
This recent arrest marks the third within six months for Hutcherson. Previously detained in July and November on weapons-related charges and resisting arrest, he had a history of carrying weapons, including a dagger and a switchblade. On both occasions, he pleaded guilty, receiving a 15-day sentence for the July incident and a conditional discharge with a temporary restraining order against the victim for the November case.
Revealing a concerning pattern, Hutcherson has a total of 17 arrests by the MTA police and the NYPD. Described as “emotionally disturbed” by various outlets, including WABC, the incident raises questions about the intersection of mental health issues and criminal behavior. The gravity of the situation underscores the need for comprehensive approaches to address both mental health challenges and the potential for violent acts, as witnessed in this distressing event at Grand Central Terminal.
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