Overview
- The attack took place just after 2 a.m. on Monday when a 19-year-old Australian eating inside the McDonald's at Eighth Avenue and 35th Street was stabbed in the ribs and back.
- The victim was rushed to Bellevue Hospital and is listed in stable condition; he later told reporters by phone that he is recovering.
- Police arrested 25-year-old Juan Mercedes at the scene and charged him with second-degree assault; he remained in custody pending arraignment.
- NYPD detectives say the stabbing appeared largely unprovoked and that their investigation into what led to the attack is ongoing.
- Regulars and staff describe the 24/7 Eighth Avenue location as a late-night trouble spot, a reputation that has intensified calls for stepped-up safety measures and closer attention to policing around Penn Station.