MANHATTAN, NY (THECOUNT) — Ramon Rivera, 51, is set to appear in court Tuesday after being charged with three counts of first-degree murder in connection with a series of fatal stabbings that unfolded across Manhattan on Monday. The New York Police Department (NYPD) described the attacks as unprovoked and random.
Details of the Attacks:
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The first victim, 36-year-old construction worker Angel Lata Landi, was stabbed in the abdomen at around 8:22 a.m. on West 19th Street near the construction site where he was working. Police said the attack appeared to be unprovoked.
Approximately two hours later, at East 30th Street, a 68-year-old man was fatally stabbed multiple times. His identity has not yet been released.
The third attack occurred at 10:55 a.m. near 42nd Street and First Avenue, where 36-year-old Wilma Augustin suffered multiple stab wounds to her chest and arm. She was rushed to New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center but succumbed to her injuries later that day.
Rivera was apprehended near East 46th Street and First Avenue after the third attack. According to Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny, “He just walked up to them and began to attack them.”
Suspect’s Background:
Rivera was reportedly staying at the Bellevue Men’s Shelter on East 30th Street. Law enforcement officials revealed he has a history of eight prior arrests in New York City, mostly related to shoplifting, none of which involved weapons. Despite his criminal history, he was out without bail pending trial on his most recent charges.
Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that Rivera is believed to have severe mental health challenges. “There’s a real question as to why he was on the street,” Adams said, highlighting broader concerns about the city’s capacity to manage individuals experiencing mental distress.
Rivera had two documented interactions with city services while in mental distress, officials said. However, details about the outcomes of these interactions were not disclosed.
Weapons Recovered:
Authorities recovered two bloody kitchen knives, believed to have been used in the attacks. Police say the suspect confessed to the killings during questioning.
Renewed Focus on Mental Health and Criminal Justice:
The case has reignited frustrations over New York City’s handling of individuals with mental health challenges and its ability to address repeat low-level offenders. Mayor Adams pointed to systemic gaps in treating those in distress and preventing individuals with a history of criminal activity from harming others.
“This is yet another tragedy that underscores the urgent need for systemic reform,” Adams said.
Community in Shock:
The attacks left Manhattan residents stunned, with many expressing concerns about safety and the apparent randomness of the violence. “This kind of thing makes you afraid to walk the streets,” said a local resident near one of the crime scenes.
Meanwhile, tributes are pouring in for the victims, especially Angel Lata Landi and Wilma Augustin, whose names have been released to the public. Friends and family remembered Landi as a hardworking individual dedicated to his job, while Augustin was described as a kind and caring member of her community.
What’s Next:
Rivera is expected to face arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court on Tuesday. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to examine Rivera’s past, potential motives, and how the city’s systems may have failed to prevent this tragedy.
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