Man, 50, charged with attempted murder after slashing a coffee shop worker’s neck in Midtown.
In a violent incident that has shocked the community, a customer at a coffee shop in Midtown Manhattan reportedly attacked a worker, leaving the victim hospitalized with critical injuries. According to law enforcement officials, the assault occurred around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2025, outside Moka & Co., an organic Yemeni coffee chain located on West 34th Street, near Seventh Avenue.
The confrontation began inside the establishment when the suspect, identified as Wagner Louis, 32, was reportedly asked to leave the shop due to his disruptive behavior. Following this request, Louis allegedly engaged in a heated argument with a coffee shop employee. The altercation escalated when Louis pulled out a knife, inflicting a severe wound to the victim’s neck.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) responded promptly to the scene and transported the injured employee to Bellevue Hospital. At the time of reporting, the worker was in critical but stable condition, highlighting the severity of the attack and the urgent medical care required.
After the incident, Louis fled the scene in a white Honda Civic. However, police quickly initiated a pursuit, apprehending the suspect just four blocks away on Park Avenue at East 33rd Street. The rapid response by law enforcement highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure public safety in the bustling urban environment of Manhattan.
In the aftermath of the attack, officials charged Louis with multiple offenses, including attempted murder, assault, and weapons possession. His arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court was anticipated to take place shortly.
This incident raises important questions regarding safety in public spaces and the challenges that businesses and their employees face in managing disruptive behavior. As New York City continues to work towards reducing crime rates, events like this remind residents of the complexities surrounding safety and security in urban settings.
As investigations continue, further updates on the condition of the victim and the legal proceedings against the suspect are expected. This alarming event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of urban life and the importance of fostering safe environments for both citizens and businesses alike.
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