A 57-year-old man had his throat slashed after confronting an individual urinating on a car outside the Church of the Immaculate Conception on East 14th Street near First Avenue.
The victim, identified as John Mach, who works as a counselor and an employee at the church, spoke exclusively to the Daily News about the harrowing ordeal.
Brave Officer Survives Throat Slashing Attack
According to the police report, officers responded to a call just after 5 p.m. regarding the incident in front of 404 East 14th Street. Mach, disturbed by the individual's actions, approached the man and asked him to cease his inappropriate behavior.
Describing the events leading up to the attack, Mach explained that the assailant, wielding a box cutter, began threatening him and his colleagues. Despite initial threats, the aggressor walked away, only to return later with a different jacket, catching Mach off guard.
"He just came and slashed my throat," Mach recounted. In a brave attempt to apprehend the attacker, Mach pursued him for a block while his throat bled profusely. Samaritans intervened, attempting to impede the assailant's escape, but he managed to flee the scene.
Mach, utilizing his shirt as an improvised bandage, was rushed to Beth Israel Hospital, where he underwent a successful surgery, receiving 16 stitches for the extensive wound on the left side of his throat, according to Daily News.
NYPD Seeks Public Help in Identifying Assailant
Reflecting on the incident, Mach asserted his commitment to safeguarding the church and its community. "My duty is to guard my church and keep everyone safe," he emphasized. Despite the severity of the attack, Mach expressed determination, stating, "God does not want me there so soon - so here I am," after returning to work on Monday.
Law enforcement authorities have released surveillance footage of the suspect in a different jacket during his return. The NYPD is urging the public to assist in identifying the assailant and providing any information that may lead to his apprehension.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the confrontation escalated when Mach confronted the individual over his disrespectful act. "I told him, 'You're not supposed to do this. You can't urinate here,'" Mach recounted. The verbal dispute turned violent when the suspect pulled out a box cutter and assaulted Mach before fleeing the scene.
Community members expressed shock at the incident, highlighting the evolving safety concerns in the area. "Things have changed dramatically, and you have to watch your back and prepare for the worst," remarked Kenny Diaz, an East Village resident.
While no arrests have been made, the investigation is ongoing. Authorities disclosed that the suspect is known to frequent the nearby area, often pushing a cart. Residents are urged to contact the NYPD through the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) with any relevant information about the incident or the suspect, ABC 7 New York reported.
