Rising Concerns for Safety on Public Transportation in New York City

“I take public transportation Monday through Friday and at this time you are practically running to get to work safely,” said Erika Figueroa, a subway user.

In the middle of rush hour on Wednesday, a 30-year-old woman was pushed at the West 53rd Street and Fifth Avenue station by a man who fled.

Authorities confirm that the victim is in critical condition after receiving a severe blow to the head after colliding with the tail of the E train that was in motion and then falling onto the train tracks.

Several people helped her and paramedics took her to a nearby hospital.

Police have identified the suspect as 39-year-old Sabir Jones and he is a person known to the NYPD. Police released images of Jones, who was wearing a burgundy sweater.

Preliminary investigation indicates there is no relationship between the assailant and the victim and it is unclear if this is a mental health case.

So far this year, according to official data, 15 people have been pushed on train tracks in New York stations. In 2022, there were 22 incidents.

Meter. They look for him.

Users of the system say that you have to be very careful:

“I try to be in the middle there and so that someone doesn’t come and try to do anything to me,” said Kenia Marte.

“I can’t imagine how someone can do something like that, but everyone has to be careful when looking around so that no one is too close,” Rey Olivos added.

Police presence has been increased at this station and others around the city.

“We definitely need more security in New York state, not just when these incidents happen, but all the time,” said user Figueroa.

In February of last year, the MTA shared that it is preparing a pilot program with sliding doors that would be a barrier between passengers and the tracks.

Sources confirm that it would be implemented next year in 3 stations, however, it is only feasible in 28 percent of the stations and would cost about 100 million dollars a year to maintain.

If you have seen the suspect or have information that helps in this case, call the line: 1-888 57 PISTA.

2023-10-19 16:44:00
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