72-year-old man attacked in Brooklyn subway during dispute over seat

A 72-year-old man was attacked by another passenger on a Brooklyn subway train after the passenger accused him of leaving his backpack on an empty seat during rush hour, police said Friday.

Police have released a photo of the attacker in the hope that someone will recognize him.

The victim boarded an R train bound for Bay Ridge at about 9:15 a.m. Wednesday on Court Street in Downtown Brooklyn and as the train entered the Atlantic Avenue station, he began arguing with the other passenger, police reported.

The suspect had placed his backpack on an empty seat that could have been used by another passenger, which led to an argument, police said.

The argument continued over several stops until the suspect attacked his victim at the 25th St. station in Sunset Park and hit him in the head, police said.

The man ran off the train shortly after hitting the victim. No arrests were made.

The senior refused medical help.

Police found surveillance footage of the attacker leaving the police station with his huge backpack.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call NYPD Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls will be treated confidentially.