The NYPD says multiple suspects who were involved in possible hate crimes over the weekend in Williamsburg are on the run.
The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force is looking into a pattern of attacks on men wearing traditional Jewish clothes. Both assaults happened Sunday within blocks of each other.
Police say a 72-year-old victim was walking in the area of Taylor Street and Lee Avenue when a group of suspects began to spray him with a powder from a fire extinguisher. The suspects then fled. No injuries were reported.
Just minutes later, a 66-year-old man who was also wearing Jewish clothes was assaulted in the same way and punched in the face in the area of Roebling Street and 3rd Street.
Officers say it is unclear if these hate crimes are connected. There are no arrests or suspects in custody.