Violent Attack: Man Arrested for Assaulting 11-Year-Old Girl at NYC Subway Station

A man has been arrested and charged with assaulting an 11-year-old girl with a box cutter outside a New York City subway station, sending her to the hospital.

A horrific and unprovoked attack has shaken a New York City neighborhood, as a man allegedly armed with a box cutter slashed an innocent 11-year-old girl in the head near a subway station. The incident has sparked outrage and concern, prompting the swift arrest of the suspected assailant.

On Friday afternoon, around 2:18 p.m., a 30-year-old man identified as Shaquan Cummings allegedly carried out a violent spree near the 116th Street 6 subway station. According to police, Cummings first punched a 43-year-old woman in the face before turning his rage towards the young girl.

In a cowardly and brutal act, Cummings allegedly slashed the girl in the back of the head and cut her ear as she walked innocently down the street holding her mother's hand. The victim sustained serious injuries and was rushed to NYC Health and Hospital/Harlem in stable condition, where she underwent surgery and required multiple stitches to close the gash.

The girl's mother, Gorzata Sladek, was horrified and traumatized by the attack. She expressed her anger and frustration, saying, "Terrible. It's terrible to see a little girl with her head cut, sliced in half and it's just terrible."

Shockingly, Cummings has a lengthy rap sheet with over 20 prior arrests, according to the New York Post. Just two months ago, he was arrested for an assault charge and given a desk appearance ticket. This incident highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing repeat offenders and preventing violence in our communities.

NYPD officers quickly apprehended Cummings a block away from the crime scene, where he allegedly fled after the assault. Witnesses expressed their outrage and attempted to confront the suspect, but police intervened to prevent any vigilante justice.

Social media videos captured the scene as officers surrounded Cummings, who hid behind them while an angry crowd gathered nearby, shouting expletives and demanding justice. "Back up!" officers yelled at the crowd, while one man was seen poking the suspect with a cane.

This senseless act of violence has shocked the neighborhood and raised concerns about safety in public spaces. Parents and residents are understandably worried about the well-being of their children and vulnerable populations, especially in light of the suspect's criminal history.

The victim's family and the community are seeking justice and closure following this heinous crime. Sladek said, "You should be able to walk on the street and not worry that somebody will attack you and attack, actually, my daughter not even attacking a dog, but a little kid."

The NYPD is continuing to investigate the incident and urge anyone with information to come forward. Mayor Eric Adams has also denounced the attack, calling it a "senseless act of violence."

The well-being and safety of our children are paramount. We must collectively work to create a society where such horrific incidents are not tolerated and where the most vulnerable members of our community can live without fear.