Three fatal stabbings in Manhattan on Monday morning left two men and one woman dead, with New York City Mayor Eric Adams calling the incidents a “clear example” of failures in the criminal justice and mental health systems.
Suspect Identified as Homeless Man with Mental Health Issues
The suspect, 51-year-old Ramon Rivera, who appears to be homeless, has a history of severe mental health problems, according to authorities. Rivera has eight prior arrests, including one for grand larceny in October.
Mayor Adams emphasized the need to investigate why Rivera was on the streets despite his criminal history and mental health concerns.
A Morning of Violence Across Manhattan
- 8:22 a.m.: Angel Lata Landi, 36, was fatally stabbed in the abdomen outside a construction site near Chelsea. He was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital.
- 10:25 a.m.: A 67-year-old man was stabbed multiple times while fishing near the East River. He later died at Bellevue Hospital.
- 10:55 a.m.: Wilma Augustin, 36, was stabbed multiple times near the United Nations Headquarters. She succumbed to her injuries at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Suspect Apprehended with Bloody Evidence
Rivera was captured after a cab driver, suspecting a robbery, followed him and alerted police. Officers arrested Rivera at 7:45 p.m., recovering two bloody kitchen knives and observing him wearing blood-stained clothing.
Rivera has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder. Authorities confirmed there are no additional suspects, and Rivera’s legal representation remains unclear.
Mayor Adams Calls for Accountability
Mayor Adams highlighted the need for systemic reform, stating the case underscores critical gaps in addressing mental health issues and public safety. The investigation will seek answers on why interventions failed to prevent such a tragic outcome.
The stabbings mark a grim reminder of the challenges facing New York City in tackling crime and supporting individuals with severe mental health needs.
