Bronx reports multiple violent sexual assaults and robbery at gunpoint

A 36-year-old woman was sexually assaulted and robbed early on Sunday morning in a residential building near East Gun Hill Road and Putnam Place in Norwood, Bronx. The suspect, described as a dark-complexioned male wearing black pants, a black jacket, and white sneakers, grabbed the victim by the neck, raped her, and stole cash and belongings before fleeing eastbound on Gun Hill Road. The victim was transported to NYC Health + Hospitals/North Central Bronx and is in stable condition. This incident is part of a broader spike in sexual assaults in the Bronx, where reported rapes have increased by over 7% to 32% this year, partly attributed to the "Rape is Rape" act of 2024, which broadens the legal definition of rape. The NYPD is actively investigating and seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect through Crime Stoppers. The attack has heightened community concerns about safety, particularly near Williamsbridge Oval park, where previous violent crimes have occurred, prompting calls for improved surveillance measures.