Hofstra student splashed in face with acid in 2021, Nassau County Police have no leads despite video
ELMONT, Nassau County (WABC) -- After two years of no leads, the Nassau County Police department is increasing the reward for any information on a brutal attack that left a college student scarred for life.
Nafiah Ikram was a student at Hofstra University and was returning home from work in Elmont when a man ran up from behind and, without saying a word, threw a chemical in her face.
"Have a heart, and just do what is right to clear your mind, and help me get better," Ikram said.
23-year-old Ikram is still living with unimaginable pain and fear, forced to wonder who and why anyone would throw acid on her.
Despite surveillance video of the actual attack, police have not been able to figure out who splashed a burning liquid on Ikram's faceback in March of 2021.
"Someone out there knows who this coward is," Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said. "And let's bring this coward to justice with help of the community."
Ikram has had eight surgeries to repair her face, arms, and throat, which were damaged by the chemical substance. She also lost sight in her right eye.
"I had that surgery to release this scarring and look," Ikram said. "I still can't open my mouth. I have scars all over my face, and they're still not even halfway done."
"It's been very draining and exhausting," her mom, Sherina Mohammed, said at a previous press conference. "As the days go on, we get weaker and weaker."
Nassau county police increased the reward to $50,000 putting out new flyers in both English and Arabic to reach as many people as possible.
The biggest loss is Ikram's sense of security and her family praying this latest push will make a difference.
"Be a good Samaritan and please come forward," Mohammed said. "That's all we're asking you. Be a human being."
Last year police said they have not yet determined whether the attack was a hate crime. Ikram is Muslim.
Ikram was pursuing a pre-med degree at Hofstra University before the attack.
Anyone with information about the case has been asked to call the police at (1-800-244-TIPS) or online - all tips will remain anonymous.
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