May 18, 2026 BROOKLYN, NY What was supposed to be a carefree spring evening at a local playground shattered into absolute terror when a routine trip to the park turned into a violent nightmare for three young Brooklyn siblings.

Detectives are currently hunting for a dangerous, unidentified man who savagely attacked a group of children—going so far as to wrap his hands around a 7-year-old boy's neck and choke him—all because the kids were recording a video.

Here is everything we know about the horrifying assault that has left a New York City community on high alert.

Targeted for a Video: How the Horror Unfolded

The chilling incident took place on May 11 at approximately 6:26 p.m. inside the Bush-Clinton Park, located within the popular Red Hook Recreation Area.

A 5-year-old girl was enjoying the evening playing with her two older brothers, ages 7 and 12, when they noticed the suspect and began filming him on a device.

Upon realizing he was being recorded, the man instantly snapped. Flying into an unhinged rage, the brute charged at the siblings, violently slamming both the 12-year-old boy and the 5-year-old girl directly onto the hard ground.

The Unthinkable Assault

The violence didn't stop there. In a deeply disturbing escalation, the attacker turned his fury onto the 7-year-old boy. The suspect grabbed the young child, wrapped his hands around the boy's neck, and began squeezing.

The attacker finally let go and fled the scene on foot before adults could intervene. Terrified and shaken, the children managed to make it home and reported the horrific ordeal to their parents later that evening.

Police officers from the 76th Precinct were immediately notified. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) treated the 7-year-old at the scene for painful neck injuries and bruising. Miraculously, the children survived the encounter, but the psychological trauma of the attack remains.

Manhunt Underway: Can You Identify This Man?

The NYPD has launched a full-scale investigation, but the suspect remains at large. He is considered dangerous and volatile.

Suspect Description:

• Last Seen Wearing: A bright blue shirt, black athletic shorts, and distinct, bright-colored sneakers.

• Last Known Location: Fleeing on foot out of the Bush-Clinton Park area in Red Hook.

How You Can Help Bring Justice

The community is reeling, and parents are demanding answers. No child should ever feel unsafe on a neighborhood playground, and this individual needs to be taken off the streets immediately.

If you were in the Red Hook Recreation Area on the evening of May 11, or if you recognize a man matching this description, do not hesitate to contact the authorities.

• Call Crime Stoppers: 1-800-577-TIPS (For Spanish, dial 1-888-57-PISTA)

• Submit Online: crimestoppers.nypdonline.org

• Direct Message on X: @NYPDTips

All calls, texts, and online tips are completely anonymous and kept strictly confidential.