Greater Long Island coverage is funded in part by Toresco & Simonelli, a boutique injury and family law firm in West Islip. They fight for their clients. Click here to get in touch.
Nassau County Police are expected to announce Tuesday that an arrest has been made in the horrific 2021 acid attack that left Hofstra University student’s face, eyes and throat severely injured outside her Elmont home.
The attack on then-21-year-old Nafiah Ikram also caused debilitating burns to her arms. She lost significant vision in one eye, has undergone multiple surgeries and continues to receive medical treatment related to the March 17, 2021, attack that permanently disfigured her face.
The suspect in her attack has not been publicly identified.
Law enforcement sources told NBC New York that authorities have identified a suspect, and that the defendant is expected to appear before a judge on Tuesday. The arrest marks a major breakthrough in a case that has remained unsolved for nearly five years.
Nassau County Police, together with County Executive Bruce Blakeman and District Attorney Anne Donnelly will hold a press briefing at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday at police headquarters in Mineola to provide an update on the assault.
Ikram was ambushed outside her family’s Arlington Avenue house after returning home from work. Surveillance footage released after the assault showed a hooded individual rushing up behind her, throwing a corrosive liquid on her face and upper body, and fleeing in a red car.
The attack drew widespread attention for both its viciousness and the heinous nature of the assault, as well as the long period without an arrest. Investigators released images of a red Nissan Altima believed to be the suspect’s getaway vehicle and offered a reward that eventually grew to $50,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
Despite repeated appeals from Ikram, her family, elected officials, and community members, the case remained unsolved until this week. Ikram over the years has stood strong and openly discussed her ordeal.
Below, she spoke alongside her parents in 2024, near the third anniversary of the assault.
Tuesday’s press briefing is expected to provide additional details about the investigation and arrest, including potential charges and next steps in prosecution.
Supporters launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Nafiah, acid attack survivor, get justice” shortly after the assault to help cover the long‑term costs associated with the attack. It has raised $600,000 through more than 14,500 donations.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
