Road rage turns deadly: Sikh man falls victim to brutal assault in New York

The bustling streets of New York witnessed an unimaginable tragedy when a Sikh man, Jasmer Singh, 66, met a brutal end after a car crash. The chilling incident unfolded as Singh’s car collided with another vehicle, leading to a confrontation that would turn fatal.

The Violent Confrontation

According to a report in the New York Daily News, the vehicles of Singh and Gilbert Augustin bore the scars of the collision last Thursday with evident dents and scratches. As the aftermath of the crash brewed tensions, Singh attempted to call 911. However, an alleged voice interrupted, exclaiming, “No police, no police,” and wrested Singh’s phone away. The heated confrontation escalated, and though Singh retrieved his phone, Augustin retaliated, delivering three brutal punches to Singh’s face and head. “Jasmer Singh fell to the ground and hit his head,” the report eerily stated.

The Devastating Aftermath

Rushed to a local hospital in a dire state, Singh couldn’t survive the brutal assault, succumbing to a fatal brain injury. The New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, expressed his anguish, lamenting, “Jasmer Singh loved his city and deserved so much more than his tragic death.” Standing with the Sikh community, Adams assured, “You have our sacred vow that we reject the hatred that took this innocent life, and we will protect you.” Further demonstrating his commitment, Adams confirmed, “Our team will be meeting with Sikh leaders this week to discuss the needs of this critical community.”

Assailant Behind Bars

Justice seemed to initiate its course as the 30-year-old assailant, Gilbert Augustin, was swiftly arrested, facing charges of manslaughter and assault. Alarmingly, Singh’s death wasn’t an isolated incident. Merely a week ago, a Sikh teen became a victim of hate when assaulted on a bus, with an aggressor attempting to undrape his turban, coldly stating, “We don’t wear that in this country.” The perpetrator has been slapped with charges of third-degree assault as a hate crime and second-degree aggravated harassment, marking a rising trend of hate crimes against the Sikh community in New York.