NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK — Brian Dowling, an 18-year-old, has been arraigned and held without bail on charges connected to the fatal stabbing of Brooklyn activist Ryan Carson, 31, in what seemed to be an unprovoked attack. The incident occurred early Monday while Carson was waiting for a bus alongside his girlfriend. Carson heroically placed himself between his assailant and his girlfriend before the fatal act. The stabbing took place just before Carson’s 32nd birthday.
Surprisingly, when shown a photo lineup, Carson’s girlfriend, a key witness, failed to identify Dowling. Authorities mentioned her trauma from the incident, which hindered her recollection of details. However, surveillance footage played a crucial role in Dowling’s apprehension. Two individuals confirmed Dowling’s identity from this footage. The video showed the suspect suddenly attacking Carson, who stumbled over a bench, making him vulnerable to the stabbing. The video also captured a woman, believed to be Dowling’s girlfriend, uttering the suspect’s first name.
Police found Dowling at his Lafayette Avenue residence during a search operation. Detectives discovered a sweatshirt, believed to be from the surveillance video, and a knife that is undergoing tests for a match with the murder weapon at Dowling’s residence. NYPD Chief of Detectives, Joseph Kenny, confirmed no prior interactions between the victim, his girlfriend, and the suspect.
The shocking nature of the incident was underscored by former NYPD Chief of Detectives, Robert Boyce, who termed it a “rage homicide.” He highlighted the potential implications of such random attacks on public sentiment, stating that residents won’t feel secure.
A visibly distressed Dowling remained silent when journalists questioned his motives as he was led from the police precinct.
While investigators progress, Carson’s family and friends are grappling with their loss. Remembered for his selfless demeanor and dynamism, Carson was praised for his unwavering commitment to societal change. Blair Horner, a former associate, lamented the tragic loss, emphasizing Carson’s immense potential. Hannah Holden, a close friend, reminisced about Carson’s generosity, recalling how he had helped her during tough times.
Carson’s legacy includes his efforts against drug overdose through No OD NY, a campaign he initiated after his best friend’s death from heroin overdose in 2016. He aimed to establish overdose prevention centers statewide, reflecting his lifelong mission to foster positive change. Carson’s friends fondly remember his dedication to transforming grief into proactive solutions for community betterment.
