A 22-year-old New York University student was punched in the face by a homeless man, just moments before the same man attacked actor Steve Buscemi in Manhattan. The student was on his way to take a final exam when the attack happened, leaving him shocked and surprised. The attacker, Clifton Williams, a homeless man with a criminal record, struck the student between 15th and 16th streets on Third Avenue at around 11:30 a.m. on May 8, before targeting Buscemi 11 blocks away just ten minutes later.
Despite suffering from a painful swollen cheek after the attack, the student decided to go ahead and take his accounting exam as planned. Although he found it difficult to focus following the incident, he believes he performed well on the exam. After completing his test, he reported the assault to the 13th Precinct. The student was taken aback when a friend sent him a news report detailing the attack on Buscemi, which included a photo of Williams, the attacker. While he found it coincidental, he also believed that the news coverage would help in identifying and catching the perpetrator.
Williams, the homeless man responsible for the assaults, was charged with a felony count of second-degree assault for punching Buscemi, who is over the age of 65, as well as a misdemeanor assault for attacking the student. He was taken into custody on May 18 and held at Rikers Island on $50,000 cash bail. The attacks on both the student and the actor have highlighted the dangers faced by unsuspecting individuals on the streets of New York City. The student’s decision to continue with his exam despite the assault reflects his resilience and determination to achieve his goals despite challenging circumstances.
The incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of individuals, especially the homeless population, who may be struggling with mental health issues and substance abuse. It also underscores the importance of reporting such crimes to the authorities to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. The student’s decision to report the assault and complete his exam despite the ordeal he had experienced demonstrates his courage and commitment to pursuing his education. By sharing his story, he has shed light on the impact of senseless acts of violence and the need for greater awareness and support for those affected by such incidents.
As the case moves forward in the legal system, it is essential to address the root causes of such attacks and work towards creating a safer environment for all members of society. By highlighting the experiences of individuals like the student who have been victims of violence, we can raise awareness about the importance of taking a stand against such behavior and advocating for greater safety measures in communities. The student’s resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges and sends a powerful message about the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming obstacles.
