Steve Buscemi was captured on video just moments before he was randomly attacked in New York City.
Last week, Buscemi, 66, was punched while walking south on Third Avenue on Wednesday. In the video, he appeared to be looking down at his phone. He then greeted someone before crossing East 27th Street — moments before he was attacked, unprovoked.
“Steve Buscemi was assaulted in Mid-Town Manhattan, another victim of a random act of violence in the city,” Buscemi’s publicist told The Post. “He is OK and appreciates everyone’s well wishes, though incredibly sad for everyone that this has happened to him while also walking the streets of New York.”
After the attack, Buscemi was taken to Bellevue Hospital for swelling in his face and left eye.
Steven Buscemi Captured on Video Moments Before Brutal Assault in New York City
Over the past few months, there have been a series of random, unprovoked attacks throughout the city. In fact, women specifically have been the targets of brutal punches by various men — in broad daylight, nonetheless.
According to police, Buscemi’s attack occurred at around 11:48 a.m. on Wednesday in front of 369 Third Ave. In the video footage, you can see him walking and minding his own business, unaware of what was to come.
A few individuals in the area also witnessed the attack. One of them spoke with The Post about the incident.
“I saw he was with a woman, and then through the corner of the window I saw him trip and fall backwards,” she said. “He right away got up and ran in the opposite direction. I didn’t see who hit him.
“It worries me for when we close because we close at 11 and it can get scary around that time,” she continued.
Another person who lives in the area shared her reaction as well.
“It’s crazy, but it’s believable — it happens,” Juliana Tronconi said. “I live right around here and I hear it all the time.”
Many angry fans also commented on CBS News footage. “A predator looking for prey,” one person wrote. “Someone that’s older and not likely to fight back. Coward.”
“It’s misdemeanor assault. Usually no jail time. What a joke of a legal system we have,” someone else commented.
Police have yet to find the alleged attacker. However, The NYPD released surveillance photos of the apparent assailant. In the pictures, the bearded man was wearing a blue T-shirt, black sweatpants, and a black baseball hat.