Man Sentenced to 25 Years to Life for Hammer Attack on Woman at NYC Subway
A man has received a lengthy prison sentence for a shocking attack on a woman in a New York City subway station. William Blount, 61, was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for his unprovoked assault on 57-year-old Nina Rothschild.
The incident occurred on February 24, 2022, when Rothschild was walking down the stairs to the Queens Plaza subway station. Blount approached her from behind, kicked her down the stairs, and then struck her in the head 13 times with a hammer. After the brutal attack, he stole her tote bag and fled the scene.
Rothschild was taken to the hospital, where doctors treated her for multiple skull fractures and performed emergency surgery. She also suffered a broken finger and other injuries.
Investigators were able to locate Blount by reviewing surveillance footage, which showed him walking away from the subway station with Rothschild’s bag. Additionally, DNA evidence found on the hammer and Blount’s cane linked him to the crime.
During the sentencing, a judge commended Rothschild for surviving such a traumatic experience. Rothschild spoke directly to Blount, questioning his motives for the attack and expressing her disbelief at the violence used against her.
Blount was convicted on multiple counts, including first-degree assault and robbery. Officials emphasized the importance of safety in the transit system and stated that this conviction serves as a warning to those who disrupt public safety.
