NEW YORK — Former New York Gov. David Paterson and his stepson were victims of a "gang assault" in New York City on Friday night, authorities said.

The incident occurred on Second Avenue near East 96th Street on Manhattan's Upper East Side just before 9 p.m., according to the New York City Police Department.

A group got into a verbal dispute with Paterson, 70, and his stepson, 20, just before the attack, police said. It was unclear exactly what started it, but Paterson's stepson knew the group from a previous encounter, according to officials.

Paterson and his stepson were hospitalized in stable condition and released Saturday morning, according to a spokesperson.

"Governor Paterson and his stepson, Anthony, were sent home early this morning. The Governor's only request is that people refrain from attempting to use an unfortunate act of violence for their own personal or political gain. He and his wife, Mary, are thankful for the quick response time from the police and the outpouring of support they have received from people across all spectrums. Governor Paterson's main concern today is Kodai Senga and the New York Mets, but we will provide any additional updates as necessary," the spokesperson's statement said.

Former governor and stepson attacked while "taking a walk"

Police said officers were sent to the scene after getting word of an assault. When officers arrived, police said they found a 20-year-old man suffering from facial injuries and a 70-year-old man who had head pain.

A spokesperson for Paterson said the former governor and his stepson were attacked while "taking a walk around the block near their home by some individuals that had a previous interaction with his stepson."

A Democrat, Paterson was governor from 2008 to 2010. He stepped into office after the Eliot Spitzer resigned following a prostitution scandal. Paterson made history at the time as the state's first Black and legally blind governor.

Police said no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Police released images of several suspects they are looking for.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). You can also submit a tip via their website or via DM on Twitter, @NYPDTips. All calls are kept confidential.

contributed to this report.