Questions raised after school aide charged in fatal stabbing had history of mental health issues
The case has raised concerns among parents and residents not only about the killing, but also about Mohassib's employment in a New York City public school.
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A Brooklyn school aide accused of fatally stabbing a woman while she was jogging along the Shore Parkway bike path allegedly told investigators he brought a knife with him because he believed people were going to kill his family, according to court documents.
Authorities say 27-year-old Sayed Mohassib is charged in the fatal stabbing of 28-year-old Katie Suarez, who was attacked while jogging in Bath Beach.
According to court records, Mohassib told investigators he went to the bike path carrying a knife on the day of the stabbing. He said he later sat down on a bench and found himself covered in blood, but he did not admit to stabbing Suarez.
Instead, investigators say Mohassib told them he ran home, disposed of the knife and threw away the bloody clothing he was wearing during the incident.
READ MORE: DOE school aide charged with murder in stabbing of Brooklyn jogger Katie Suarez, sources say
The case has raised concerns among parents and residents not only about the killing, but also about Mohassib's employment in a New York City public school.
"We're shocked. Very shocked. It's very scary," said Bath Beach resident Barney Robinson. "You just don't expect that kind of thing to happen around here."
Mohassib, a former police officer and ex-Marine, was employed as a school aide at P.S. 200, according to officials. School aides are required to undergo background checks and fingerprinting as part of the hiring process.
"It obviously wasn't thorough enough. They should have dived deeper," Robinson said.
Parents with children at P.S. 200 told News 12 they have not yet received communication from the school regarding Mohassib's position, but expect the Department of Education to address concerns about the case.
The New York City Department of Education said in a statement that Mohassib has been suspended and could face termination depending on the outcome of the criminal case.
The case has also prompted broader discussions about mental health and support services for veterans transitioning back to civilian life.
"It was shocking and disturbing," said Bath Beach resident Eric Varca, an educator and father of two. "There's a lot of scars that come with battle fatigue and being involved in combat. I think this really needs to be evaluated when they transfer into civilian life."
Mohassib was arraigned Saturday on multiple charges, including murder.
Meanwhile, Suarez's legacy continues through organ donation. We're told the 28-year-old donated organs that saved the lives of four people following her death.
READ MORE: DOE school aide charged with murder in stabbing of Brooklyn jogger Katie Suarez, sources say
