UPDATE: Police Considering Randy Gener's Assault a Possible Hate Crime

A new report published this morning confirms that the attack on theater journalist Randy Gener, who is currently recovering in the ICU from brain surgery after an assault last week, is being considered a possible hate crime by the police.

Gener was reportedly assaulted on January 17th, shortly before 4 a.m. after leaving a party in midtown, and was found in the vicinity of 7th Avenue near 54th/55th Street. He is said to have suffered severe head trauma, from which he is currently recovering in the Neuro ICU.

"He can't answer the questions of what happened that night, he doesn't really exactly know who we are or where he's at sometimes," said Gener's sister, Jessica Blair Driessler, according to ABC. "And it's really painful to see him here the way that he is because he's the most articulate person."

Police are considering what happened to Gener, who is openly gay, a "bias attack."

"Over the past year, several gay men have not only been attacked, but murdered," said Gener's friend Kevin Nadal.

Police are asking anyone with more information to come forward, and the active case file is #485, under Detective Enis at the 18th Precinct at (212) 767-8400.

There will be a candlelight vigil to support Randy tonight, Sunday, January 26. It will take place at 6 p.m. at 53rd Street and 7th Avenue. Bring your own candles, bundle up, and be prepared to march a few blocks. More details HERE.

We will update this story as more information becomes available via his friends and family, and in the meantime, extend our thoughts and prayers. Visit Randy's Facebook page to show your support here.

Randy is an editor, social media expert, accomplished writer, and critical thinker with 10 years of experience leading, directing, managing, and editing news, features, and narrative content for print publications, new media, and interactive digital projects. He has reported and written for National Public Radio, New York Times, Star Ledger, Village Voice, New York Daily News, Crain's New York Business, International Herald Tribune, Time Out New York, New York Magazine, Film Society of Lincoln Center, and others in Asia and Europe. He is also a lecturer on American studies, U.S. politics and foreign affairs, cultural diplomacy and international relations, journalism and criticism, design and performance, arts and entertainment, and the impact of new technology on narrative architectures.