Brooklyn grandfather reported neighbor to police 6 days prior to being fatally stabbed by him, according to authorities.

A Brooklyn community is shaken by a tragic incident involving a 70-year-old grandfather, Frederick Howard, who was allegedly stabbed by his upstairs neighbor, Josny Jean, 31, on Monday, September 8, 2025. The assault occurred around 1:10 a.m. in their shared multi-family residence located on East 87th Street near Avenue M in Canarsie. Jean faces murder charges following the violent event, which has raised concerns about neighborhood safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement.

Just days before the fatal incident, Howard had filed a complaint with the New York Police Department (NYPD) citing criminal mischief, expressing significant fear for his life. According to an NYPD source, one report alleges that Jean had previously intervened when Howard sought to call the police about the ongoing conflict. At the time of Howard’s death, the case was still under investigation, but Howard had expressed to neighbors that he felt his grievances were not being taken seriously.

Eyewitness accounts describe Howard as a devout Seventh-Day Adventist, affectionately known in the community as “Preacher Man” for his love of gospel music. Friends and neighbors recall a kind-hearted man who endeavored to maintain peace and harmony, facing persistent harassment from Jean, who moved into their building approximately three years ago. Reports indicate that the relationship between the two deteriorated as Jean reportedly bullied Howard over minor issues, including cleaning obligations and the behavior of his untrained dog.

On the night of the incident, surveillance footage captured Howard and Jean arguing before the assault took place. Witnesses recounted seeing Howard fall to the ground and scream as Jean stabbed him multiple times, subsequently dragging his lifeless body into a car and driving to Brookdale University Hospital. Hospital staff, alarmed by the situation, contacted law enforcement, resulting in the recovery of a bloody knife from the scene.

As Jean was arraigned in Brooklyn Criminal Court on charges of murder and weapon possession, he was ordered held on a million bond. The details surrounding this incident have prompted criticism toward police handling of Howard’s earlier complaints, with neighbors expressing concerns that a more robust response could have prevented the tragedy.

Howard’s family and local community leaders, including members from his church, are mourning the loss of a man they describe as selfless and gentle. Many are left reflecting on the responsibility of law enforcement to adequately protect individuals in vulnerable situations. As investigations continue, the community seeks answers and justice in light of this unfathomable violence.