Brooklyn Man Arrested for Knife Threat on 'Miami Vice '85' Set

Key points

• Alex Perez, 23, was arrested by the NYPD on October 23, 2026, near Bay Parkway and McDonald Avenue in Brooklyn.
• Perez allegedly pulled a large butcher knife during a confrontation with a 43-year-old production staffer, leading to charges of second-degree menacing and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
• The incident occurred near the set of 'Miami Vice '85,' starring Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler, with no injuries reported to cast or crew.
• Perez has a prior criminal record involving gang-related activity, assault with a firearm, and burglary, according to TMZ.
• The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski, is currently shooting in New York City and New Jersey, with a theatrical release scheduled for May 19, 2028.

Background

Production for the 'Miami Vice '85' reboot began in early October 2026, with Universal Pictures constructing a period-accurate 1980s Miami streetscape in Wayne, New Jersey. The cast includes Michael B. Jordan as Ricardo Tubbs and Austin Butler as Sonny Crockett, alongside a supporting ensemble featuring John Leguizamo, Walton Goggins, and Haley Lu Richardson. The project, written by Dan Gilroy, is a theatrical reboot of the 1984-1989 NBC series.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and Yahoo confirmed the basic facts of the arrest, noting the peaceful custody and weapon recovery. The New York Post provided specific details on the victim's age and the location near Washington Cemetery, while TMZ added that the weapon was a large butcher knife and highlighted Perez's criminal history. All outlets agreed that no injuries occurred, though the Post emphasized the crew member's fear for his safety, a detail not explicitly mentioned by NBC or Yahoo.

Why it matters

The incident highlights security challenges for high-profile film productions in public spaces, though it did not disrupt the overall schedule. The 'Miami Vice '85' reboot remains a major upcoming release, and the arrest underscores the need for robust safety protocols on sets involving A-list talent.

What to watch

Perez faces court proceedings for the charges of menacing and weapon possession. Filming for 'Miami Vice '85' is expected to continue across New York City and New Jersey, with the final theatrical release targeted for May 19, 2028.