Detectives say the suspect fled after a daylight attack outside 3077 Third Ave.
BRONX, N.Y. — New York City police released photos late Monday of a man wanted in the fatal stabbing of 53-year-old George Ennin on a Melrose sidewalk across from Flynn Playground earlier in the day, as detectives appealed for tips and more video.
The release of the images marks the first public look at the suspect since the attack, which happened shortly after 2 p.m. on Third Avenue near E. 163rd St. Ennin, who lived nearby, was taken to Lincoln Hospital and pronounced dead. The case sits with the 40th Precinct detective squad, which is combing surveillance footage and witness accounts. As of Tuesday morning, no arrests had been made and police had not announced a motive.
Video reviewed by investigators shows the assailant trailing pedestrians, then turning toward Ennin before tripping him and stabbing him multiple times on the sidewalk. The suspect, described in the images as wearing a bomber-style jacket, ran off through afternoon foot traffic as bystanders tried to help. “Especially if I’m walking with a child there in broad daylight,” said Navil, a neighborhood mother, describing the fear she felt after seeing the scene. Officers sealed off the block outside 3077 Third Ave. and canvassed stores for footage.
Police said the attack unfolded across from Flynn’s Playground at school dismissal time, when the corner is crowded with students and families. Detectives collected physical evidence from the sidewalk and requested video from building cameras, buses and nearby businesses. The city medical examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death. Officials said it is unknown if Ennin and the attacker knew each other or exchanged words before the assault.
By evening, the department distributed still photos of the suspect taken from surveillance cameras. Investigators are mapping the man’s path before and after the stabbing to identify additional cameras and potential witnesses. Uniformed officers increased presence around the playground and nearby schools while detectives work the case. The precinct plans to brief community leaders if there are major developments.
The investigation’s next steps include reviewing newly collected footage, processing forensic evidence, and following up on leads generated by the photo release. Police said any update on a possible arrest would be announced after confirmation by detectives and prosecutors. As of Tuesday, the suspect remained at large and the timeline for further updates depended on results from the video review and lab work.
Neighbors returned to the corner Tuesday morning to find dried marker paint outlining evidence points on the pavement. A small cluster of candles appeared near the wall where Ennin fell. “We all pass here every day—this was shocking,” said a deli worker who heard screams before police arrived. Parents guided children along the opposite side of the street as officers reopened the block.
Police said they will share additional information once detectives identify the suspect or make an arrest, with the next update expected after new surveillance is analyzed later this week.
Author note: Last updated January 6, 2026.