A man has been charged following a hate crime investigation for allegedly making disparaging racial remarks toward a woman at a nail salon in Norwalk on Tuesday.
Officers responded to Bling Bling Nail Salon at 10 Main St. on the report of an unwanted guest who was reportedly causing a disturbance, according to Lt. Tomasz Podgorski of the Norwalk Police Department.
There was no disturbance happening when officers arrived, but they were able to speak to the man who prompted the 911 call to be made. He told police that a family friend of his was in the salon earlier in the morning and that she was the alleged victim of racial insults, Podgorski said. Her race was not specified in a statement issued by police.
According to Podgorski, detectives took over the investigation based on the allegation of a potential hate crime. They spoke to the individuals who were allegedly involved and a witness.
Podgorski said police believe a dispute arose over services that were provided at the salon, which led to an argument between a woman and a man who worked as a nail technician. During the dispute, he allegedly made “disparaging racial comments toward her,” Podgorski said.
The argument escalated before the woman allegedly struck the man on the side of the head with her hand, Podgorski said. No injuries were reported.
The nail technician, identified as 26-year-old Hai Bin Zu, was charged with second-degree breach of peace, Podgorski said. He was released on a promise to appear.
The woman who was involved was not charged, according to Podgorski.
Podgorski said the investigation remains ongoing in collaboration with the State’s Attorney’s Office at Stamford Superior Court. According to Podgorski, police may make an additional arrest.