Who Is Longqian Chen? Suspect Identified in Brooklyn Mass Stabbing That Injured Four Girls
Authorities have identified the suspect as 49-year-old Longqian Chen, a relative of the victims, raising serious questions about motive and mental health concerns.
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| 4 children stabbed by man in Brooklyn home |
What Happened in the Bensonhurst Mass Stabbing?
The violent incident unfolded around 10:15 a.m. on April 6 at a multi-family residence on 84th Street near 17th Avenue in Bensonhurst, a quiet, predominantly Asian-American neighborhood in southern Brooklyn. According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), an 11-year-old girl called 911, reporting that she and her sisters had been stabbed by their uncle while they were staying in the home.
Responding officers used the cell phone’s GPS signal to locate the apartment. Upon arrival, they were led inside by a fifth child, who was unharmed. Inside, police heard screams and forced their way into a back bedroom, where they encountered Chen holding a blood-covered meat cleaver.
Despite multiple commands to drop the weapon, Chen allegedly charged at officers. In response, police discharged their weapons, striking him at least once. He was transported to Maimonides Medical Center, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
Victims: Four Young Girls Seriously Injured
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| Uncle shot by NYPD cops after stabbing four young Brooklyn girls with knife |
The victims are four girls aged 8, 11, 13, and 16, all reportedly nieces of the suspect. Each sustained stab or slash wounds, with some considered life-threatening at the scene. All four were rushed to Maimonides Medical Center, where doctors now say they are expected to survive following emergency treatment.
Authorities have praised the quick thinking of the 11-year-old girl who called 911 and the fast response by officers and EMS workers, saying the rapid intervention “likely prevented a tragedy from becoming far worse.”
Who Is Longqian Chen?
Chen is reportedly the uncle of the victims, and had been staying in the apartment for an extended period. According to family members interviewed by police, Chen has a history of mental illness, though specific diagnoses have not been disclosed. There were no prior reports of domestic violence or official complaints lodged against him in the household.
As of Monday morning, police say Chen remains in custody at the hospital under heavy guard and has not yet been formally charged pending the outcome of the investigation.
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| Four young girls were seriously injured in a stabbing attack inside a Brooklyn home |
Possible Motive Under Investigation
Police have not publicly confirmed a motive for the attack, but investigators believe the stabbing may be linked to mental health issues and possibly an acute psychological episode. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny stated, “All indicators at this point suggest that this was not a premeditated act, but rather a breakdown or crisis that escalated violently.”
Forensic teams are continuing to process the scene, and interviews with family members and neighbors are ongoing. Authorities say they are also reviewing any history of mental health treatment and whether any warning signs were missed.
Community Reaction
The attack has shocked the Bensonhurst community. Local residents gathered near the crime scene Sunday evening for a small candlelight vigil, expressing sadness and support for the victims. Many neighbors described Chen as quiet and reserved, and the family as “friendly and well-liked.”
“This is just devastating. You don’t expect something like this to happen on your block,” said Linda Chow, a neighbor who has lived in the area for over 20 years. “Our thoughts are with the children.”
NYPD Statement
In a press briefing, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised the courage of the young victims and commended the officers involved for their swift and decisive action.
“These children showed extraordinary bravery under unimaginable circumstances,” Tisch said. “Our officers also acted heroically, putting themselves at great risk to save lives. We are grateful that this didn’t end in even greater tragedy.”
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