"Boardwalk Empire" actor Michael Stuhlbarg was allegedly randomly attacked by a homeless man with a history of criminal offenses on Sunday evening. The incident took place near East 90th and East Drive, less than 2 miles from the location where Stuhlbarg's character was killed off in the popular HBO series. Stuhlbarg, who is set to take the stage for the first preview of his upcoming Broadway production "Patriots," was later seen leaving his Upper West Side apartment the following morning without commenting on the incident.

According to police and sources, Stuhlbarg was struck in the back of the neck with a rock by 27-year-old Xavier Israel. The actor then chased the suspect down the block, and police, stationed outside the Russian Consulate, swiftly apprehended him. Israel, who is homeless and was on parole for an attempted robbery at the time of the attack, was charged with assault.

This is not the first time Israel has been involved in violent incidents. In January 2022, he was caught on surveillance camera assaulting and stealing from a good Samaritan who had offered him his coat. He was also recorded attacking a 49-year-old woman who had tried to help him. Israel was arrested and charged with assault on both occasions, but was released on a desk appearance ticket.

Additionally, Israel allegedly assaulted two more individuals, a man and a woman, inside Central Park on January 2nd. He randomly punched the 18-year-olds as they sat on a rock in the park. He was also charged with assault in connection with this incident.

Stuhlbarg declined medical assistance for the reported pain and bruising on the back of his neck. The actor's representatives have been contacted for comment on the attack.

Israel, who awaits arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court, has a lengthy rap sheet that includes several assaults on random civilians in Central Park. His previous offenses paint a concerning picture of a man with a propensity for violence.

As the investigation continues, the incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the homeless population in New York City and the need for effective solutions to address mental health and social support issues.