NYC professor grateful for support after beating by youths who called him 'terrorist'

NEW YORK – A Columbia University professor says he's overwhelmed by the support he's received after he was attacked in upper Manhattan by a group of young men who called him "Osama" and a "terrorist."

Prabhjot Singh (PRUHB'-joht sihng) spoke to reporters on Monday despite a fractured lower jaw. He says he's thankful that his injuries are not worse.

The follower of Sikhism says he's working with investigators from the NYPD hate crimes unit.

The attack occurred around 8 p.m. Saturday at 110th Street near Lennox Avenue.

The victim was approached by 15 to 20 young men on bicycles. One of the suspects pulled his beard. He was kicked in the face and body before they fled.