Authorities are actively searching for Jamar Banks, a 52-year-old man with a history of mental illness and an extensive criminal record after he was linked to at least two subway stabbings in New York City this week. Banks is considered to be dangerous and is believed to be armed with a large Knife-Wielding. Law enforcement officials have issued a warning to approach him with “extreme caution.”
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Overview of the Stabbings
The incidents in question occurred on January 1 and January 2, 2025. Banks is suspected of being involved in two separate subway stabbings, one on the No. 2 train and another on the No. 6 train platform. The New York Police Department (NYPD) has confirmed that Banks is a suspect in both attacks.
Incident on January 1, 2025: Banks allegedly approached a 31-year-old man from behind on the No. 2 train at 14th Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. After starting an argument, he stabbed the victim in the back and fled the scene.
Incident on January 2, 2025: At around 6 a.m., Banks is believed to have stabbed an off-duty MTA cleaner during a confrontation on the northbound six train platform at Pelham Bay station in the Bronx. The victim was stabbed in the back and armpit before Banks escaped.
Both victims were rushed to hospitals in stable condition following the attacks. Surveillance footage has provided authorities with a visual lead, showing Banks holding a knife while wearing gloves.
Background on Jamar Banks
Banks has an extensive criminal history, with 87 prior arrests spanning various charges, including attempted murder, assault, weapons possession, and petty theft. In addition to the current stabbings, Banks has been involved in several violent incidents in the past.
Previous Incident in 2022: On October 19, 2022, Banks allegedly stabbed a 26-year-old man in the leg on the No. 2 train in Manhattan. The victim told police that Banks attempted to sit on his girlfriend’s lap. After the victim asked him to move, Banks pulled out a knife and stabbed him in the lower left leg. The victim was treated at the hospital, and Banks was arrested for assault with intent to cause injury using a weapon.
Earlier Charges: In June 2015, Banks was accused of stabbing a man who had knocked on the door of a McDonald’s bathroom in Manhattan. In 1997, he was charged with attempted murder after allegedly shooting a man in the leg in the Bronx following a brief altercation.
Public Safety Concerns
Banks’ criminal history and recent violent behavior have raised significant concerns about public safety, especially in the subway system. Authorities are warning the public to be vigilant and report any information that may lead to his capture.
Subway Connections: Banks is known to frequent the No. 2 and No. 5 subway lines, making him a likely suspect in other similar incidents. Investigators are urging the public to avoid any interactions with him and to contact law enforcement immediately if they spot him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jamar Banks accused of?
Jamar Banks is accused of being involved in two subway stabbings in New York City on January 1 and January 2, 2025.
What is Jamar Banks’ criminal history?
Banks has 87 prior arrests for various charges, including attempted murder, assault, weapons possession, and petty theft. His criminal history spans several violent incidents, including stabbings and shootings.
Is Jamar Banks considered dangerous?
Yes, Banks is considered dangerous, and law enforcement officials have advised officers to approach him with “extreme caution.”
What should I do if I see Jamar Banks?
If you spot Jamar Banks, do not approach him. Instead, contact law enforcement immediately and report his location.
Has Banks been arrested before for similar incidents?
Yes, Banks has been arrested multiple times for violent crimes, including a stabbing on a subway train in 2022.
Conclusion
Jamar Banks remains a dangerous individual with a long history of violent crime. The ongoing search for him is a critical matter for public safety, particularly in the subway system. Authorities are urging the public to stay alert and report any sightings of Banks to ensure his swift capture and prevent further violence.