Woman Attacked with Hockey Stick in East Village, Vows to Carry Mace for Protection

In a disturbing incident that adds to a recent string of random attacks targeting women in New York City, a woman was assaulted with a hockey stick in the East Village. The victim, identified as finance worker Amber Nguyen, was walking home with friends on April 9 when she was suddenly attacked by a hockey stick-wielding assailant on East 6th Street between First Avenue and Avenue A around 10:30 p.m.

According to Nguyen, the attacker approached her without uttering a word and struck her forcefully on the back of her thigh with the hockey stick. The sound of the impact echoed through the street as the assailant walked away, leaving Nguyen and her friends shaken. Surveillance footage released by the police on Wednesday captured the attacker in action.

In a chilling turn of events, the assailant then targeted another unsuspecting woman nearby. However, this time, the woman’s boyfriend intervened, causing the attacker to retreat momentarily. Meanwhile, Nguyen and her friends followed the assailant for several blocks, but he abruptly turned around and charged at them again. In a menacing tone, he threatened, “I’m going to f–k you up!”

Eventually, Nguyen and her group sought refuge in a nearby restaurant, while the attacker fled the scene. Reflecting on the incident, Nguyen expressed her fear and emphasized the need for personal safety measures. She revealed her intention to carry Mace with her, acknowledging that she should have taken precautions earlier.

This incident adds to a growing number of reports from women who have been randomly assaulted while walking around New York City in recent weeks. Several victims, mostly in their 20s, have shared their traumatic experiences on social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the injuries they sustained.

Nguyen, who moved to the city a year ago, highlighted the unpredictability of such attacks, regardless of whether one is walking alone or in a group. She emphasized the importance of remaining cautious, as anyone can become a target.

Nguyen received immediate treatment at the scene and was left with a visible yellow and purple bruise as a result of the attack. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased vigilance and personal safety measures in the city.