October 10, 2025 DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN, NY – In a chilling case that has shaken New York City commuters, the man accused of a fatal subway beating in Downtown Brooklyn was formally arraigned Thursday on murder charges. Authorities allege that the suspect, David Mazariegos, 25, confessed to brutally killing a 64-year-old commuter simply because "he didn't like the way that [the victim] looked at him."

Mazariegos was held without bail in the death of Nicola Tanzi, a beloved community protector and church usher whose life was tragically cut short in a senseless attack.

The Fatal Encounter and Quick Arrest

The horrifying incident unfolded Tuesday afternoon at an emergency exit gate within the bustling Jay Street-MetroTech station. Police say Mazariegos stomped Tanzi in the head multiple times, causing injuries that proved fatal.

Within hours of the vicious assault, police located Mazariegos in Times Square. The arrest was startling: Mazariegos allegedly had four of the victim's credit cards—one he had reportedly just used to make a purchase at a nearby Target store. Even more alarming, authorities say a katana sword with a blade over 20 inches long was resting in his lap at the time of the apprehension.

Suspect's Lengthy Criminal History Revealed

Law enforcement officials have disclosed that Mazariegos has a significant record, including 17 prior arrests. His rap sheet reportedly includes charges for assault earlier this year, petit larceny, and graffiti, raising serious questions about the failure to prevent this tragedy.

A Community Mourns a 'Protector'

The profound loss has been deeply felt in the communities Tanzi served. Originally from Italy, Tanzi was known as a dedicated Public Safety Officer for the Metrotech BID, managed by the Downtown Brooklyn Project. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Public Safety Officer Nicola Tanzi," the organization said in a statement.

Friends and neighbors described him as their "community protector," a "great friend," and a "very friendly, family-oriented guy." Beyond his security work, Tanzi was a man of deep faith, serving as an usher at St. Athanasius - St. Dominic Parish.

"He was a man who was welcoming to others... that was his role at church and he made sure everyone felt welcome," said a pastor from the church.

Nicola Tanzi, a man dedicated to safety and community, met a violent end allegedly stemming from a fleeting glance, underscoring the escalating fears of violence on the city’s subway system. Mazariegos remains in custody as the investigation continues.