Manhattan

‘Boardwalk Empire' actor hurt in Central Park rock attack

Michael Stuhlbarg refused medical attention at the scene; the man who attacked him allegedly has attacked strangers before

NBC Universal, Inc.

A "Boardwalk Empire" actor is recovering after being hit in the head with a rock in a random attack as he walked near Central Park Sunday night, authorities say.

Michael Stuhlbarg, also known for his movie roles in "The Shape of Water" and "Call Me by Your Name," endured pain and bruising to the back of his head, yet refused medical attention at the scene of the 7:45 p.m. attack near East 90th and East Drive, officials say.

A witness reported seeing a man pick up a rock and launch it into the crowd, resulting in Stuhlbarg's injury.

A homeless man, later identified as 27-year-old Xavier Israel, was taken into custody; he faces assault and harassment charges. Israel is allegedly the same person who attacked a good Samaritan who gave him a coat in Manhattan more than two years ago.

Bail was set at $100,000 bond for Israel, who is being represented by Legal Aid.

Stuhlbarg is currently acting in "Patriots" on Broadway, which is scheduled for its first preview performance Monday.

He is expected to be a part of Monday night's performance.

The entire Patriots company fully supports Mr. Stuhlbarg, who feels fine and is looking forward to performing on stage tonight.

Statement from "The Patriots" on Broadway

The show released a statement: "Michael Stuhlbarg will perform at tonight’s first preview performance of Patriots on Broadway at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, as scheduled. As media outlets have reported, the actor was randomly attacked near Central Park last night. The entire Patriots company fully supports Mr. Stuhlbarg, who feels fine and is looking forward to performing on stage tonight."

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