Army veteran charged in New York fatal stabbing reportedly told police he wanted to target Black men

NEW YORK — A Maryland man who fatally stabbed a stranger in Manhattan told investigators he traveled to New York City to kill Black men, authorities said. Police identified the suspect as James Harris Jackson, 28, an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan and belonged to a documented hate group.

Jackson told detectives he drove from Baltimore because he wanted to “make a statement,” officials said. He also claimed he targeted Black men who date white women.

James Harris Jackson Arrested in Times Square

Police arrested Jackson after he walked into the Times Square substation on Wednesday and confessed. He told officers, “You need to arrest me. I have the knife in my coat,” according to law‑enforcement sources. He then added, “I’m the person you’re looking for.”

Authorities said Jackson had already stabbed Timothy Caughman, 66, a Black man who lived nearby. Caughman died after seeking help at the Midtown South Precinct.

Details of the Attack

Investigators said Jackson used a 26‑inch mini sword to stab Caughman in the chest and back late Monday near Ninth Avenue and West 36th Street. After the attack, Caughman staggered into the precinct while Jackson went to a restaurant bathroom to wash off blood, police said.

Officials described the assault as “random” and “clearly racially motivated.” Chief William Aubry said Caughman had been searching through trash when Jackson approached. “There was nobody else around,” Aubry said.

Suspect’s Movements Before Surrender

Jackson stayed at The Hotel at Times Square before the killing, police said. He told investigators he became enraged after seeing an interracial couple shortly before he surrendered. Surveillance video also captured him “stalking” another Black man earlier that day, though he did not attack, officials said.

Victim Remembered

Caughman described himself on Twitter as a “can and bottle recycler” and “autograph collector.” He often posted photos with celebrities. He lived in a transitional residence on West 36th Street.

Background of the Suspect, James Harris Jackson

Jackson served in Afghanistan and Germany during his Army career and received an honorable discharge in 2012, according to sources. He also attended Ohio Wesleyan University beginning in 2007, though it remains unclear whether he graduated.