Video shows fatal assault on Italian immigrant in NYC subway
A shocking new video captures the horrific moment when a career criminal, charged in connection with a deadly subway assault in Brooklyn, repeatedly stomps on the defenseless victim, rendering him unconscious. The victim, 64-year-old Nicola Tanzi, was brutally attacked by the suspect, David Mazariegos, at the Jay Street-MetroTech station. The disturbing footage shows Mazariegos initiating the assault by sucker-punching Tanzi twice in the face, causing him to fall to the ground.
Following the initial punches, Mazariegos unleashes a relentless barrage of kicks to Tanzi’s face while he lays defenseless on the ground. The assailant’s cruelty is further evidenced by his admission to law enforcement that he targeted Tanzi because he did not like the way he looked at him. This unprovoked act of violence occurred after Tanzi had courteously held the emergency door open for Mazariegos, demonstrating a genuine display of kindness that was met with senseless brutality.
During the subsequent investigation, Assistant District Attorney Shena Aishnani revealed that Mazariegos callously continued his attack even after Tanzi had become unconscious, demonstrating a complete disregard for the victim’s well-being. In his confession, Mazariegos admitted to not only beating Tanzi but also robbing him and taking his “spirit.” The egregious nature of the attack led to Mazariegos being charged with first-degree murder in connection with Tanzi’s tragic death.
Tanzi, a devout Catholic and member of the Italian club in Carroll Gardens, suffered fatal injuries as a result of the assault, including skull fractures, a crushed nasal bone, and severe facial trauma. Despite the severity of his injuries, Tanzi’s family members describe him as a compassionate individual with a positive outlook on life, always ready to assist and forgive others in need. Even in the face of such a heinous act of violence, they express a belief that Tanzi would have extended forgiveness and assistance to his attacker if given the chance.
Following his arrest, Mazariegos displayed a disturbing lack of remorse, evident by his toothless grin as he was taken into custody. This disturbing incident sheds light on Mazariegos’s criminal past, with records indicating five open cases in Manhattan and the Bronx, involving charges related to theft, identity fraud, property damage, and assault. The senseless and merciless nature of this attack serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk within our communities, prompting a necessary reflection on the importance of safety and vigilance in public spaces.