A group of teenagers in upstate New York is under scrutiny after they allegedly attempted to kill a homeless man in a brutal attack, influenced by a disturbing social media trend. Authorities say the incident has left the victim fighting for his life.
According to Binghamton city police, the attack involved five boys, aged 13 to 15, who assaulted the 45-year-old man late Monday night. They reportedly beat him unconscious, inflicting severe head and body injuries.
Describing the assault as both “disgusting” and “heinous,” Police Captain Matthew Hodnik linked the incident to a troubling viral trend. “There is a recent push in social media trends that involves recording attacks on unhoused or drug-addicted individuals,” Hodnik stated, as reported by WBNG.
He expressed outrage at the mindset behind such actions, saying, “Juveniles, to think this is acceptable or something to potentially be proud of, is just absolutely disgusting.”
Authorities were able to identify and apprehend the five suspects, all residents of Binghamton, approximately 24 hours after the attack. The case has sparked broader discussions on the influence of social media on youth behavior and the alarming nature of such trends.
The five suspects — all Binghamton residents — were identified about 24 hours after the attack and taken into custody, according to authorities.
Two 15-year-old boys and two 14-year-old boys were charged with second-degree attempted murder, while a 13-year-old boy was released to a guardian for now, with criminal charges expected to be filed against him as the probe continues, police said.
Their identities were not released because of their ages. Each suspect is being held at a juvenile facility in Syracuse.
“What happened earlier this week is abhorrent and inexplicable,” Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham said in a statement.
“Our community is left grappling with how these young people could carry out such a heinous act of violence. I’ve been at a loss for words these last few days.”
The victim, who did not have a permanent address, was listed in critical condition as of Wednesday.
A Post call to the Broome County District Attorney’s Office was not returned.
Resident Joseph Henry, 20, who resides near the crime scene, blamed the children’s parents for their alleged actions while pushing local officials to do more for the homeless population.
“Where is their parents to teach them and guide them?” Wagner said, according to WBNG. “With dangerous teenagers and stuff in this world, we just need more police.”
