The 2025 NYC Homicide Victim List is available here.
Photo: Torregrossa funeral home

On October 7, 2025, 64-year-old Nicola Tanzi was fatally attacked at the Jay Street–MetroTech subway station in downtown Brooklyn. The incident, which authorities described as unprovoked, resulted in Tanzi’s death later that day from severe head trauma.

According to law enforcement, Tanzi had briefly held a subway gate open for another man, identified as 25-year-old David Mazariegos of the Bronx. Following that interaction, Mazariegos allegedly punched Tanzi to the ground, then continued to beat and stomp him repeatedly in the head. Witnesses say the attack was sudden and extremely violent.

Emergency responders arrived on the scene and transported Tanzi to NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Police circulated surveillance images of the suspect shortly after the incident. Mazariegos was arrested later that evening in Times Square. At the time of his arrest, he was carrying four stolen credit cards, including one belonging to Tanzi, as well as a long sword.

Prosecutors reported that Mazariegos admitted to the attack during questioning. He now faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder, robbery, and grand larceny. A judge ordered him held without bail.

Tanzi was a longtime parishioner at St. Dominic Church in Bensonhurst, where he served as an usher for over a decade. Parish leaders and community members described him as humble, helpful, and deeply committed to his faith.

Update: 25-year-old David Mazariegos has been arrested and charged with murder, robbery, and criminal possession of stolen property.