QUEENS — Police have released surveillance images of a man who they say spat on a 15-year-old Muslim girl and called her a "terrorist" as she rode a city bus in Kew Gardens Hills last week.
Police said the man was riding the Q88 bus on the Horace Harding Expressway near Kissena Boulevard at 9 a.m. on April 7 when he approached the teen while she was on her way to school.
The man, whose name has not been released, made anti-Muslim statements and called the teen a “terrorist.”
He also spat on her and raised his fist, threatening to punch her, according to the NYPD.
According to a published report, the man became angry after the girl’s bag brushed up against him.
Police said they are investigating the incident as a hate crime.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers' website at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.
All calls are strictly confidential.
