October 26, 2026 NEW YORK, NY A terrifying late-night attack in one of New York City’s most famous landmarks has left residents shaken and sparked urgent police investigations. NYPD detectives are searching for an armed predator after a woman was sexually assaulted at knifepoint inside Central Park on Saturday night—the second violent assault reported in the park in a span of just seven days.

A Night of Horror Near Fifth Avenue

The horrifying encounter unfolded shortly before 8:30 p.m. near the intersection of East 66th Street and Fifth Avenue.

According to law enforcement authorities, a man approached the 39-year-old female victim, brandished a knife, and sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene. First responders rushed the victim to a local hospital for medical evaluation and treatment.

Investigators have launched an aggressive canvass of the surrounding area, searching for security footage and witness testimony to identify the armed suspect.

Two Violent Attacks in Seven Days

Saturday's brutal encounter comes on the heels of another terrifying assault inside the park just days prior. On the preceding Sunday, a 32-year-old woman was ambushed near West 93rd Street and West Drive.

In that incident, three male attackers struck the woman repeatedly in the head before snatching her backpack and escaping on foot.

Official NYPD crime statistics highlight a disturbing trend: through October 18, four rapes have been reported within the Central Park Precinct, up from three reported during the same period last year.

Parkgoers and City Leaders Demand Safety

The rapid succession of violent incidents has sent shockwaves through the community, forcing many who rely on the park for daily exercise and recreation to alter their routines out of fear.

"It's very concerning for me because I have to organize my life to be safe," said Martina Garcia, a local runner. "For example, when I want to go out running, I have to go in the mornings, not in the afternoons or at night because I'm scared something might happen to me."

City leaders have expressed strong outrage following the latest attack:

• NYC Council Speaker Julie Menin: "I am outraged by this horrific act of violence. My thoughts are with the survivor, and I hope she makes a full recovery. Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe in our city."

• Council Member Virginia Maloney: "I run in Central Park myself. Women deserve to feel safe there, at any hour."