Two New York City subway system riders were knocked onto the train tracks this week, authorities said. One victim was physically injured during the attack. The other victim was shaken up by the surprising attack.
A 32-year-old man was shoved onto the tracks at the Myrtle-Wycoff L train station in Brooklyn on Friday afternoon. He told Eyewitness News he didn’t know the attacker and doesn’t know how he’ll ever feel safe riding the subway again.
The NYPD arrested Lamale McRae, 41, in connection with Friday’s incident. It’s unclear what charges he will face when the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office gets the case.
On Sunday, a 62-year-old man was punched in the back of the head in an unprovoked assault, the NYPD said. When he was punched in the head, he got knocked onto the tracks of the subway station. The victim suffered minor injuries and refused medical attention at the scene.
New York City’s subway system has been the scene of several violent crimes, including nine homicides, according to police statistics. 40% of those responsible for the homicides had a history of mental health issues that are likely linked to the severity of the crimes.
New York state and city officials are bolstering efforts to combat crime and mental illness in New York City’s subway system with an increased police presence and new training for officers on engaging with homeless individuals.
Mayor Eric Adams rode the subway Sunday night and met with officials during a weekend crime summit. The plan includes adding 1,200 additional cops, more cameras, and increasing access to mental health services.
The transit authority will deploy unarmed security guards at turnstiles and deploy transit police officers at major commuter railroad hubs. The city has also installed more than 200 cameras in subway cars and is set to install 100 more in the coming days.