Following a disturbing incident in Central Park where a woman was raped by a man wielding a knife, the NYPD has increased police patrols in the area. This announcement was made by the department on Monday.
Authorities have urged the public to stay vigilant and report any sightings of the suspect, described as a slender man with a beard, dressed entirely in black. The assault took place on Saturday night, specifically in a wooded section on the park’s east side, involving a 39-year-old victim.
“The NYPD has ramped up its presence in Central Park,” officials noted. They reminded everyone to be conscious of their surroundings, as they would in any part of the city.
According to police reports, the attacker forcibly took the woman to a secluded part of the park near East 67th Street and East Drive around 8:30 p.m. before fleeing the scene.
The victim was transported to a nearby hospital and is currently in stable condition.
Late Sunday, the NYPD released new photos of the suspect, showing him in a black hooded jacket, black pants, and carrying a black backpack.
Notably, this incident marks the fifth reported rape in Central Park this year. Of the previous cases, arrests have been made in three, highlighting a concerning trend. In contrast, three rapes occurred in the park during the same period in 2025.
Citywide statistics reveal that rape reports have risen by about 2%, with a total of 1,735 incidents reported up to Sunday, compared to 1,696 during the same timeframe last year. Police officials suggest that the increase in reports may be linked to changes in state law, which broadened the definition of rape.
Those who have information regarding the suspect’s location are encouraged to contact the NYPD’s Sex Crimes Hotline at 1-212-267-7273 or 646-610-7272. There’s also the option to reach the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers. Tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers website.
