Sources say an off-duty NYPD officer is making medical progress after being attacked and robbed in the Bronx by three suspects Tuesday morning, leaving him in critical but stable condition.
Police say the incident took place just before 11 a.m. while Muhammad Chowdhury, a 48-year-old male, was out jogging near 823 Olmstead Ave.
The three suspects approached Chowdhury, repeatedly struck him in the head — fracturing his skull, causing his brain to bleed — and stole his phone, car keys and wallet, which contained multiple forms of identification, according to police.
Authorities say the suspects fled the scene in a black Honda sedan operated by an unknown fourth individual, which was last seen traveling westbound on Turnbull Ave.
EMS transported the off-duty officer to Jacobi Hospital in critical condition but stable condition.
Sources say Chowdhury is now conscious and alert as medical staff continue to pay close attention to his condition.
The injured officer works in the Central Park Precinct and is an 18-year veteran of the force, according to sources.
A spokesperson for the mayor said Eric Adams visited the hospital to check in on Chowdhury Tuesday.
In a statement, Mayor Adams condemned the attack and vowed to hold those responsible for it accountable.
“As we pray for the speedy recovery of this injured officer, the NYPD is actively investigating today’s attack on one of their own and is working tirelessly to bring the suspects to justice. We will continue to work day in and day out to remove violent criminals from off the streets and end the unchecked violence in our city,” the statement reads.
Police say the incident marks the 19th incident in a citywide robbery pattern that authorities are currently investigating.
A rally and demonstration condemning the attack is being held Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at 823 Olmstead Ave., where Chowdhury was assaulted.