Violent Attack and Robbery at Holy Cross Church in Manhattan
In a shocking incident that unfolded Wednesday afternoon, a church worker was attacked and robbed inside the revered Holy Cross Church in Manhattan after requesting a couple to move from blocking the church’s entrance. Authorities report that the incident occurred around 2 p.m. near Times Square, sparking outrage among the community.
The victim, a 67-year-old employee of the church, approached the individuals—identified as a man and a woman—and politely asked them to vacate the steps to allow access to the church. However, instead of complying, the couple reacted aggressively. The church worker attempted to take a cellphone photograph of the pair after they refused to move, but they swiftly entered the church to confront him as he dialed 911.
The couple proceeded to snatch the worker’s phone from his grasp and physically assaulted him, striking him in the forehead. The attack resulted in a visible cut and swelling, causing him to require medical attention. After the incident, the duo fled south on Ninth Avenue, evading capture.
Authorities are currently searching for the suspects, described as being in their 20s with dark complexions. The male suspect is described as heavyset, last seen wearing a short-sleeved beige flannel shirt over a black T-shirt, paired with blue jeans and gray sneakers. The female was reportedly seen in a black hoodie, blue jeans, and white sneakers, and was carrying a black crossbody bag along with a white plastic shopping bag.
Following the attack, the victim was transported to Mount Sinai West hospital, where he is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The community remains shaken by this violent episode in a location where many seek solace and peace.
