In the heart of Dumbo just across from Brooklyn Bridge Park, the shocking and violent attack Thursday night turned eyes away from the picturesque skyline.
According to police, a 43-year-old man was leaving Shake Shack on Old Fulton St. around 9:15 p.m. when he was randomly ambushed by a teen who punched him in the face.
Hunt for teen who punched Brooklyn man
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The victim hit his head on the sidewalk and was lying helpless when witnesses say the teen then took a selfie before running off.
"It's pretty messed up that it's like a thing to just go and beat up a random person just because they think it's cool to put online," said Peter Kim who frequents the area.
"The need for attention and getting a name or presence is superseding the idea of compassion and human decency," said Katie Palmer who works in Dumbo.
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Recovering in intensive care at a nearby hospital, the victim spoke with Eyewitnesss News briefly by phone stating,"There's not enough security in the area; This is a major tourist attraction and there should be more security."
Meanwhile, police are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and are still searching for the teen.