A dangerous knife-wielding man is on the run in New York City. Jamar Banks, 52, is wanted in connection with two subway stabbings this week. Police have urged officers to approach him with “extreme caution.” Banks is believed to be armed with a large knife and has a shocking criminal record of 87 prior arrests.
Cops on high Alert
Banks is known to frequent the No. 2 and No. 5 subway lines. Authorities are scrambling to track him down. Surveillance photos show him clutching a knife with gloved hands. The NYPD linked him to violent attacks on January 1 and January 2.
The first attack occurred on New Year’s Day. Banks allegedly stabbed a 31-year-old man in the back. The incident happened on a No. 2 train at 14th Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. The two reportedly argued before the attack. Banks fled the scene immediately after the stabbing.
The next day, chaos erupted on a northbound No. 6 train platform. Around 6 a.m., an off-duty MTA cleaner was stabbed. The attack took place at the Pelham Bay station in the Bronx. The victim suffered wounds to his back and armpit. Banks allegedly started an argument before knifing the cleaner. Once again, the attacker escaped.
Victims in stable Condition
Both victims were rushed to nearby hospitals. Thankfully, they are in stable condition. However, the incidents have sent shockwaves through the city. Subway riders are on edge, and authorities are urging everyone to stay vigilant.
Banks’ criminal History
Banks’ rap sheet is long and disturbing. His arrests include charges of attempted murder, assault, weapons possession, and more. Police sources say Banks has a history of riding the subway and targeting unsuspecting victims.
One of his past crimes occurred on October 19, 2022. Banks allegedly stabbed a man in the leg with a kitchen knife. The victim, 26, boarded a northbound No. 2 train at Fulton Street. Banks reportedly got on at 72nd Street and tried to sit on the victim’s girlfriend’s lap. When the victim intervened, Banks pulled a knife and stabbed him. Officers applied a tourniquet, and the victim was hospitalized. Banks was arrested weeks later and charged with assault. The outcome of the case remains unclear.
Another shocking incident dates back to June 2015. Banks reportedly burst out of a McDonald’s bathroom in Manhattan. He stabbed a man who had knocked on the door. The attack happened at 14th Street and Sixth Avenue.
Violent Past
Banks’ violent streak goes back decades. In June 1997, he was charged with attempted murder. Police say he shot a man in the leg after being bumped into on the street. The incident occurred on East 226th Street in the Bronx. Banks, then 24, faced multiple charges, including assault and illegal firearm possession. Details about the case’s resolution are scarce.
Subway Safety Concerns
These incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns in New York City’s subway system. Despite increased police presence, violence persists. Subway riders fear for their safety, especially during late hours. Banks’ actions have reignited calls for stricter measures to protect commuters.
Public Alert
The NYPD is urging anyone with information about Banks to come forward. He is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities stress that public assistance is crucial in capturing him. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the police hotline.
As the manhunt continues, New Yorkers remain on high alert. With a history of violence and a weapon in hand, Banks poses a serious threat. The city’s residents and police are determined to bring him to justice.
