A male model has been arrested in connection with a horrific stabbing murder that occurred in the lobby of a New York City apartment building. Police say the victim, a 34-year-old man, was found in a pool of blood early Tuesday morning in a gruesome crime that has shocked both the local community and the fashion industry.
The murder took place in the luxury apartment complex located in the Midtown Manhattan area. According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the victim, identified as Brian Matthews, was discovered by a building employee who was making a routine check of the lobby. Police say Matthews had been repeatedly stabbed, with officers describing the scene as “super bloody” and “brutally violent.”
A suspect was quickly identified after security footage from the building’s lobby showed a man leaving the scene shortly after the attack. The suspect was later tracked down by authorities and arrested without incident at his home in Brooklyn. He has been identified as 28-year-old Lucas West, a male model who had been living in the apartment building for several months.
West is facing charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter, and assault in connection with Matthews’ death. The two men reportedly had a history of personal conflict, though the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear. Authorities are investigating whether the murder was the result of a dispute or if there were other factors involved.
“It was a shocking crime, and the level of violence is just disturbing,” said NYPD Lieutenant Karen Simmons. “The victim was found in a terrible state, and we are working diligently to understand what led to this senseless act.”
Neighbors in the upscale building were stunned by the news of the violent crime. “I never would have thought something like this could happen here,” said one resident who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s a quiet building, and then this. It’s just surreal.”
West, who has worked for several high-profile modeling agencies, was known in the local fashion scene. His arrest has sent ripples through the industry, where he had a growing presence in photo shoots and advertisements.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the motive behind the murder and are examining whether drugs, alcohol, or other factors played a role in the incident. West is being held without bail and is expected to appear in court for arraignment later this week.