An NYU Student Faces a Senseless Attack on His Way to a Final Exam
On May 8, a 22-year-old New York University student was on his way to take a final exam when he became the target of a violent assault. Recalling the incident, he stated, “I was drinking iced coffee and he just walked up to me and was like, ‘What’s up?’ and then punched me in the face.” The victim, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed his shock at the unexpected attack, especially given that it occurred in broad daylight. He also found the timing of the assault particularly frustrating, as it disrupted his preparations for the exam.
The man responsible for this senseless act is Clifton Williams, a homeless individual with a lengthy criminal record. Williams stands accused of randomly targeting both the NYU student and actor Steve Buscemi within a span of ten minutes. The assault on the student took place between 15th and 16th streets on Third Avenue at around 11:30 a.m., while Buscemi was attacked 11 blocks north.
Despite suffering a painful blow to his left cheek, which resulted in swelling in the subsequent days, the determined business major decided to proceed with his accounting exam. Reflecting on the incident, he admitted that it was challenging to maintain focus during the test. Nevertheless, he managed to complete it and promptly reported the assault to the 13th Precinct.
When a friend shared a news report about Buscemi’s attack, featuring a photo of Williams, the student couldn’t help but find the situation somewhat ironic. He remarked, “I don’t want to say it was, like, funny, almost, but it was just very coincidental. Like, what are the chances?” Additionally, he found comfort in the fact that Williams’ photo was circulating in the news, believing that it would aid in his identification and capture.
Following the incidents, Clifton Williams was apprehended and faces serious charges. Due to Buscemi’s age, Williams has been charged with a felony count of second-degree assault, in addition to a misdemeanor assault charge. Currently, he is being held at Rikers Island on $50,000 cash bail.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the need for vigilance, even during seemingly routine activities. The NYU student’s resilience in the face of adversity highlights the determination and strength possessed by individuals pursuing their education. By sharing his story, he not only sheds light on the impact of such attacks but also raises awareness about the importance of reporting incidents promptly to aid in the identification and arrest of perpetrators.
