Crime & Safety

Man Indicted For Fatally Stabbing 'Longtime Friend' In East Harlem: DA

The 63-year-old was charged with murder, according to prosecutors.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said they were still investigating why the fatal stabbing took place.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said they were still investigating why the fatal stabbing took place. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

HARLEM, NY — A 63-year-old man was indicted for fatally stabbing a "longtime friend," according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Anthony Jordan, 63, was indicted Wednesday on murder and weapons charges, according to Bragg.

Jordan was arrested by police shortly after he repeatedly stabbed a "longtime friend," Michael Smith, 47, to death inside an East Harlem apartment in March, prosecutors said.

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“As alleged, Anthony Jordan viciously stabbed his longtime friend after showing up unannounced and with a weapon,” said Bragg. “Although the investigation remains ongoing as to why Mr. Smith’s life was tragically taken, we will work diligently and tirelessly to ensure accountability in this case. My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim as they continue grieving such an insurmountable loss.”

Prosecutors said that on March 17, Jordan went to a friend's apartment where the victim was staying, near East 132nd Street and Park Avenue, in the middle of the afternoon.

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Once inside, Jordan — knife in hand — confronted Smith, and a struggle ensued, officials said.

At one point, Smith fell to the floor, landing on his back, and his 63-year-old friend then stabbed him repeatedly in the back at least eight times, prosecutors said, in addition to other knife wounds on his body.

Jordan fled the apartment and was cuffed days later by police at his home, according to prosecutors.

Bragg's office said that an investigation of the murder — including Jordan's motive — is still ongoing.

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