The 16-year-old told police he walking in the area of Lake Avenue near Hope Avenue around 8 p.m. Monday when he was approached and forced into the hallway of a nearby apartment building, Detective Lt. Robert Bracken said.
The would-be robber demanded his cellphone and cut the teen on the arm -- but the boy said he pushed him away and fled without surrendering any valuables, Bracken said.
The teen described him as a young adult with dark skin.
He sought medical attention on his own, the lieutenant said.
Bracken asked that anyone who saw anything or has information that could help catch whoever was responsible call the Clifton Police Juvenile Division: (973) 470-5882.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Paterson and receive free news updates.