A man spoke out Wednesday after being violently beaten during an attack he says was over a pack of cigarettes.

The incident happened on Sept. 26, in front of 779 New Lots Ave. around 2:25 p.m.

Marcelle Santiago says he was approached by a woman after getting off of the 3 train and she asked him for a cigarette.

After he refused, she offered him marijuana, but he says he told her he didn't want any.

Santiago says he began walking away when suddenly he was struck in the face by a man.

He says he woke up in an ambulance after losing consciousness during the attack.  

Police released surveillance video of a group of women and one man severely beating Santiago.

Santiago was punched in the face and knocked to the ground by the man who continued to punch and kick him.

While he was on the ground, police say a group of three women stole the pack of cigarettes from him.

Santiago was transported to Brookdale Hospital in critical condition.

He was treated for severe head trauma, police say.

He says he feels lucky to be alive.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.