Iconic actor Steve Buscemi was assaulted in a disturbing daytime attack on Manhattan's streets, highlighting a surge in violence in New York City.

Fan uproar and city-wide anxiety persist as Steve Buscemi becomes another victim of the recent violent trends plaguing New York.

According to Daily Mail, the assault occurred as the 66-year-old actor walked alone near Third Avenue and East 27th Street in the Kips Bay neighborhood of Manhattan. This incident took place at 11:48 AM on a Wednesday, leaving Buscemi with considerable injuries, including bruising, swelling, and bleeding to his left eye. He was quickly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

This recent attack on Buscemi follows an earlier assault on his "Boardwalk Empire" co-star, Michael Stuhlbarg. Stuhlbarg was assaulted by a homeless man wielding a rock while jogging through Central Park near East 90th on the evening of March 31. These consecutive attacks on well-known actors have sparked an intense reaction from the public and the media.

Distress and Demands for Better Security Surge Online

Following these incidents, fans took to social media to express their outrage and concern for safety in the city. Calls for better security measures and increased police presence have been loud, reflecting the shock and fear that such attacks could happen in broad daylight in busy areas of the city.

Public figures and celebrities also joined the conversation. Actor Michael Rapaport made heartfelt remarks about Buscemi, calling him a "hero," "a former firefighter who worked onsite 9/11, great artist, and easily one of the kindest and most generous people you could meet." This sentiment was echoed across various platforms, where many described Buscemi as a national treasure.

Furthermore, the New York Police Department has been active in their response. They quickly released surveillance images of the assailant believed to be responsible for the attack on Buscemi in hopes that public assistance could lead to a swift arrest.

Concerns Over the "Knockout Game" Grow

Recent crime statistics from the NYPD have shown troubling trends. There has been a 3.8% increase in felony assaults in the first quarter of this year alone, with a notable 5.5% increase in assaults during March compared to the previous year.

This upsurge in violence is attributed in part to what's being termed "the knockout game" – a dangerous trend where assailants aim to knock out unsuspecting victims with a single punch, often for no discernible reason.

Eye-witness accounts of the attack on Buscemi offer some details. A passerby reported seeing Buscemi with a woman before he was struck, causing him to trip and fall backward. This sudden act of violence has left many citizens wary of their surroundings, fearing that anyone could be a target.

Among the sea of vocal reactions, one fan’s comment stood out, particularly for its intensity: The perpetrator of the attack on Buscemi "should be publicly flogged." Another commented on the need for immediate action: "New York, get your s*** together," reflecting a widespread sentiment of frustration and urgency.

City's Image and Safety in Question

The consecutive assaults on celebrities have stirred an unsettling question regarding the safety and image of New York City. Once known for its vibrant life and relative safety after the sharp declines in crime in past decades, these incidents point to a possible eroding sense of security among residents and visitors alike.

Broader public safety concerns are added to the layers of individual stories and incidents. The city's efforts to curb this violence are being scrutinized, with many questioning if enough is being done to protect its citizens, especially in tourist-heavy and densely populated areas.

Buscemi’s past as a firefighter during 9/11 highlights his long-standing heroism, not just on screen but in real life. Such connections between his past acts of valor and the current scenario paint a stark contrast, further fueling public sympathy and support for the actor.

In conclusion, the assaults on Steve Buscemi and Michael Stuhlbarg are not isolated incidents but part of a disturbing trend that raises questions about safety and security in New York City. These events have triggered a powerful response from fans and citizens alike, pleading for decisive action and reforms to curb this upsurge in public assaults. As the city grapples with these challenges, the resolve of its institutions and the community's solidarity are being tested.