Manhunt in Red Bulls Youth Soccer Coach’s Mutilation and Murder
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ABC News / NYPD(NEW YORK) — Police are searching for a man wanted for the grisly murder and mutilation of a New York youth soccer coach.
Surveillance video that shows the man authorities believe stabbed Michael Jones numerous times in the chest and neck and cut off his ear before leaving him to die on a sidewalk was released by the New York Police Department.
Jones, 25, was in his fifth season as a soccer coach for the Red Bulls’ youth training program. He was stabbed around 4:30 a.m. on Sunday and the killer is still on the loose.
Police do not believe robbery was the motive since Jones’ wallet and phone were found at the scene, according to ABC News’ New York station WABC.
Jones was reportedly seen talking to his attacker moments before the attack, but it is unclear if the two knew each other.
The surveillance footage shows a man walking away from the scene with long, dark hair in a ponytail. Police estimate he is between 25 and 30 years old.
Jones moved to New York from Liverpool, England, about five years ago to coach soccer for the Red Bulls.
“He was a fantastic coach who loved soccer and a terrific friend for many of us,” the team said in a statement. “This is truly a sad day for our soccer community and we will do our utmost to help authorities in their investigation of this case. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s family at this time.”
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