In a disturbing incident on an MTA shuttle bus at 118th Street and Liberty Avenue in a South Ozone Park, a 19-year-old individual was viciously attacked for wearing a turban and a mask. The victim, in an apparent hate crime, was targeted solely due to his religious and cultural attire and suffered physical violence with the attacker punching the victim in the head, face and back, before trying to remove his turban and mask.

"This reprehensible attack targeting an innocent individual based on their religious and cultural identity is an appalling display of bigotry and will not be tolerated,” Addabbo said. “We must stand united against such acts of violence and hatred, and work towards creating a society that respects and embraces diversity. I offer any assistance my office can be in apprehending the criminals of this unacceptable incident."