BROOKLYN, NY – A 25-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly beating a stranger to death at a Brooklyn subway station in a senseless act of violence triggered by nothing more than a perceived look.
David Mazariegos was arrested Tuesday night in Times Square after “eagle-eyed cops” recognized him from surveillance photos, according to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
The deadly assault occurred at approximately 3:07 p.m. Tuesday at the Jay Street subway station. When questioned by investigators, Mazariegos admitted to killing the victim “because he didn’t like the way he looked at him.”
According to police, Mazariegos launched a brutal attack on the unidentified male victim, punching, kicking, and stomping on his head 15 times. During the savage beating, Mazariegos allegedly held open the subway emergency gate while continuing the assault.
The victim was transported to New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital but was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival. Police are withholding his identity pending proper family notification.
The arrest in Times Square came after officers spotted Mazariegos and recognized him from surveillance images circulated to police throughout the city. When apprehended, he was in possession of a sword, leading to an additional charge of criminal possession of a weapon.
Mazariegos is currently awaiting arraignment on murder charges. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety in New York City’s subway system, where random acts of violence continue to alarm riders and transit officials.
The attack appears to have been completely unprovoked, with no prior interaction between Mazariegos and his victim. Witnesses reported seeing the assault but were unable to intervene before the fatal injuries were inflicted.
Transit officials have emphasized their commitment to rider safety while acknowledging the challenges of preventing random acts of violence in a system that serves millions of passengers daily.
The case has resonated with New Yorkers who rely on the subway for daily transportation and fear becoming victims of similar unprovoked attacks. Advocacy groups are calling for increased mental health services and enhanced security measures throughout the transit system.
Legal experts note that Mazariegos’ alleged admission about his motive undermines any potential self-defense claim and strengthens the prosecution’s case that this was a cold-blooded, premeditated murder triggered by nothing more than perceived disrespect.
The victim’s family is being notified and will likely receive support from victim services as they cope with the sudden, senseless loss of their loved one.
The incident adds to growing statistics about violent crime on New York City’s subway system, prompting renewed debates about public safety, mental health resources, and how to protect vulnerable transit users.
