Union Square subway station closed after pepper-spray assault

Police said the 14th Street/Union Square subway station was completely closed for nearly a half hour on Fri., Oct. 7, after an unknown male ran off after pepper-spraying a 77-year-old male. The victim was transported to Bellevue Hospital for treatment. The search for the perpetrator is ongoing, cops said

According to police, just after 10 a.m., the victim exited a southbound W train at the station. As he was walking on the southbound platform pushing a small cart, he unintentionally brushed a stranger with the cart. The latter man brandished pepper spray and fired it at the 77-year-old victim, causing pain and redness to the elderly male’s face and eyes.

A surveillance-camera video of the alleged pepper-spray assailant, according to police. (N.Y.P.D.)

The assailant fled up the stairs and out of the station. E.M.S. responded and transported the victim to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition.

The suspect is described as last seen wearing a blue baseball hat, blue jacket, blue jeans and light-colored sneakers.

Police ask that anyone with information call the N.Y.P.D.’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips can also be submitted on the Crime Stoppers Web site at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or on Twitter at @NYPDTips. Tips can result in cash rewards. All tips are strictly confidential.