A tragic incident unfolded on a Bronx street last month when a 58-year-old man was randomly assaulted by a maniac. Dequan Jackson, 29, allegedly approached the victim from behind and punched him in the back of the head, causing him to fall to the ground near Jerome Avenue and West Mosholu Parkway North in Norwood on Aug. 4 at around 5 p.m.
The victim was rushed to Saint Barnabas Hospital where he fought for his life for over a month before succumbing to his injuries on Sept. 7. His identity has not been released pending notification of his family.
Jackson was arrested at the scene and initially charged with assault. However, with the victim’s passing, the charges against him may be upgraded. Jackson has a history of run-ins with the law, with 10 prior arrests for offenses including assault, reckless endangerment, grand larceny, and criminal possession of a weapon.
In a disturbing revelation, it was disclosed that Jackson had been arrested in 2021 for assaulting his own 5-year-old daughter. Despite these troubling incidents, Jackson pleaded not guilty to the August assault during his arraignment at Bronx Criminal Court and was released without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 17.
The community is left grappling with the senseless violence that claimed the life of an innocent man. Authorities are working diligently to ensure that justice is served for the victim and his loved ones. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and preventing acts of violence in our society.