A 20-year-old New York University student was assaulted on her way to class in Lower Manhattan, leaving her shaken and injured after what police describe as a completely unprovoked attack.
Surveillance footage captured the moment a man approached her from behind, struck her, grabbed her by the hair and shoved her forcefully to the ground before running off. The attack happened in the morning hours as students were heading to campus.
Police later identified and arrested 45-year-old James Rizzo, a homeless man with an extensive criminal record and past allegations involving women. He now faces multiple charges including assault, forcible touching and persistent sexual abuse.
The victim shared an emotional video online describing the terror she felt during the assault, saying the city no longer feels safe for her or for other young women navigating its streets.
NYPD officers and NYU campus security are coordinating as the investigation continues. The attack has fueled renewed concern across the city about violent incidents involving repeat offenders, and the challenges of keeping students and residents safe in busy public areas.