A verbal dispute at an Astoria diner that escalated into an assault is being investigated as a possible anti-gay hate crime and authorities are looking for three suspects in connection to the incident, police said.
The victims, a 30-year-old woman and 32-year-old man, were inside of the Neptune Diner, located at 31-05 Astoria Blvd., about 5 a.m. on Jan. 8, when they became involved in an argument, which involved anti-gay statements made towards them, the NYPD said.
The three suspects then allegedly threw plates at the victims, police said.
The victims were taken to Mount Sinai Queens with lacerations to their heads, cops said.
Investigators from the Hate Crimes Task Force are looking to question two women and one man depicted in surveillance photos police have released from the diner.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website or can text their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
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