NYPD Releases New Images of Suspect in Central Park Rape Case

The New York Police Department released new photographs of the suspect wanted for a rape that occurred in Central Park on Saturday night. The images were made public on Monday to aid in the ongoing search for the man.

According to the NYPD, the incident took place around 8:30 p.m. near Fifth Avenue between 66th and 67th streets. A 39-year-old woman reported that a man brandished a knife and dragged her to a secluded area. She was transported to a hospital for treatment. No arrests have been made in connection with the case.

This assault is the fifth rape reported in Central Park this year. That number is double the three incidents recorded during the same period last year. The latest crime data from the NYPD indicates that overall crime in the park has risen by approximately 20 percent year-to-date compared to 2025. Grand larceny and robbery remain the most common offenses in the area.

The attack follows another incident last Sunday, when a 32-year-old woman was punched, attacked, and robbed by three men while biking on West 93rd Street and West Drive. Mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the surge in violence, stating that the events were horrific. He said, "We know that every New Yorker should be able to walk anywhere in our city at any time of day and they should be safe, and anything less than that is not something that I will ever justify or accept."

Park visitors have adjusted their habits in response to the increased activity. Zoe Verzani, who runs in the park, said she felt nervous on a route that usually feels safe during the day. "I usually do the loop, but I wanted to be on gravel, and I thought it would be more populated than it was and I was definitely nervous," she said. Another visitor, Elle Friedmann, said she avoids the park after 6 p.m. during the winter months because she does not feel safe.

David Sarni, a former NYPD detective with nearly 30 years of service, advised the public to stay prepared. He recommended using GPS devices, pepper spray, and whistles for self-protection. "If you're not familiar with the area, it is hazardous, it is dangerous," Sarni said.

The NYPD has increased patrol presence in footpaths and wooded areas to address the rise in robberies. The department asks anyone with information to call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS or 1-888-57-PISTA for Spanish speakers. Tips can also be submitted via the Crime Stoppers website or by direct message on X to @NYPDTips. Calls are kept confidential. Several emergency call boxes are located throughout the park, though the park website notes that it can take up to 30 seconds to connect a caller to the Central Park Precinct.