Suspected Murderer of NYC Activist Apprehended by Police

A teenager has been taken into custody in connection with the killing of social justice activist Ryan Carson in New York. The suspect, identified as Brian Dowling, is facing charges of murder and illegal possession of a weapon, according to the police. Carson, aged 32, was fatally stabbed multiple times on the streets of Brooklyn's Crown Heights neighborhood in the early hours of October 2. Authorities stated that the assailant appeared agitated prior to the attack. The suspect was only named after sufficient evidence had been gathered for an arrest, as reported by local media. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, dressed in dark attire, approaching Carson and an unidentified woman sitting on a bench near a bus stop around 4:00 am local time. Upon noticing the suspect, Carson and his companion attempted to walk away. However, Dowling, now identified as the attacker, started knocking over parked scooters and proceeded to shout obscenities at them. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny stated that Carson immediately stood between the man and his female companion in an effort to de-escalate the situation. Shortly after, the suspect stabbed Carson three times, including a fatal blow to the chest that pierced his heart. As Carson lay dying on the sidewalk, the assailant kicked him in the chest, threatened to stab his female companion, and spat in her face. Police reported that a woman believed to be the suspect's girlfriend arrived at the scene and apologized to the couple. Carson had resided in New York for 13 years, during which time he played a vital role in organizing campaigns for the New York Public Interest Research Group, particularly centered around waste policy. Additionally, Carson was involved in the creation of the "No OD NY" campaign, which aimed to raise awareness about overdose prevention centers. In 2021, he walked over 150 miles from New York City to Albany to advocate for these centers and other harm reduction measures. Mayor Eric Adams described him as an unwavering advocate for others, emphasizing the tragedy of his murder and pledging the NYPD's commitment to bringing justice. Senator Chuck Schumer, who collaborated with Carson at a town hall meeting about inflation, praised him as a rising talent and extraordinary activist, encouraging others to be inspired by his memory and work.