Manhattan, New York — Manhattan Stabbing Spree: A 51-year-old man accused of fatally stabbing three people in an apparent unprovoked spree in Manhattan made his first court appearance on Tuesday.
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Ramon Rivera faces three counts of first-degree murder, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD). Police sources stated that Rivera confessed to the killings during questioning.
During Tuesday’s hearing, the judge granted the prosecution’s request for remand, ensuring Rivera remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 22.
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Three Victims Killed Within Hours
The attacks occurred over a span of three hours on Monday morning, police said.
At 8:22 a.m., the first victim, 36-year-old Angel Lata Landi, was stabbed in the abdomen near a construction site on West 19th Street where he was working. The attack was unprovoked, according to authorities.
Two hours later, 67-year-old Chang Wang was fatally stabbed multiple times on East 30th Street.
The third victim, 36-year-old Wilma Augustin, was attacked at 10:55 a.m. at 42nd Street and First Avenue. She suffered multiple stab wounds and was rushed to a hospital, where she later died.
Rivera, who was staying at the Bellevue Men’s Shelter on East 30th Street, was apprehended shortly after the final attack near East 46th Street and First Avenue.
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Manhattan Stabbing Spree Victims Chosen at Random
Authorities believe the victims were chosen randomly.
“He just walked up to them and began to attack them,” said Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny at a press conference.
Police recovered two bloody kitchen knives believed to have been used in the attacks.
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Mental Health Concerns and Prior Arrests
Rivera’s criminal history includes eight prior arrests in New York City, mostly for shoplifting. None involved violence or the use of weapons, police said. He was out without bail pending trial on his most recent arrests.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed frustration with the city’s inability to address individuals in mental health crises and manage low-level offenders.
“There’s a real question as to why he was on the street,” Adams stated during a news conference.
Rivera, who is believed to suffer from severe mental health challenges, had two documented interactions with city officials regarding his mental distress.
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Renewed Debate on Mental Health Policies
The incident has reignited debate over New York City’s approach to mental health crises, especially for individuals with prior legal troubles. Advocates have called for stronger systems to treat and monitor those in need, aiming to prevent future tragedies.
Rivera’s case has underscored the city’s ongoing challenges in balancing public safety with mental health care, leaving many to question what more can be done to prevent similar events.
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Rivera remains in custody as the investigation continues.