Man Responsible for Multiple Attacks in NYC Remains at Large

A homeless man with a troubling criminal history has committed another assault in New York City, despite being allowed to roam freely following an attack on a teenager last November. The suspect is believed to be Edwin Wright, 39, who is wanted by police in connection with two separate assaults.

On June 5, around 9:30 a.m., Audrey Harkins, a 94-year-old retired teacher, was waiting at the Oculus transit station when she was suddenly struck on the head by a stranger wielding two heavy metallic objects. Harkins, who taught for 30 years on Long Island, described the attack as happening quickly while she was on an escalator. She required three stitches to close a head wound sustained during the assault.

Witnesses and a Good Samaritan provided police with descriptions, but Harkins never saw the attacker’s face. Her account and evidence led police to believe Edwin Wright, a known recidivist with prior arrests, is responsible. Wright’s last known residence was a Bowery homeless shelter, and he had an outstanding warrant for a similar assault in November, where he punched a teenage girl at Broadway and John Street.

Wright has been released on supervised probation despite charges including assault and harassment. Authorities say he failed to appear for a court hearing on May 6 and is currently at large. Police also link him to another incident on March 10 at William and Fulton streets, where he allegedly punched a 54-year-old man and assaulted him as he attempted to recover.

The increase in transit-related assaults has alarmed city officials and officers, with some blaming lenient bail policies that allow repeat offenders like Wright to remain on the streets. One veteran officer exclaimed, “It’s bail reform. Let’s fill Rikers to keep these people off the streets.”

Harkins, who once moved to Florida but returned to NYC after three years, remains shaken but hopeful. Following her injury, she received medical treatment and now plans a trip to Hawaii, a place she longed for since leaving the city. She reflected on her decision to return, saying, “I missed New York, so I came back. I love the energy here.”