A shocking incident unfolded at the 34th Street-Herald Square station in Midtown, New York City, as a woman randomly attacked a musician, prompting him to suspend his subway performances indefinitely. The assault, captured on video and shared by the victim, Iain S. Forrest, has since gone viral, garnering widespread attention.
The incident occurred on Tuesday around 5:45 p.m., during the busy rush hour. Forrest, a 29-year-old cellist, was passionately playing his instrument while seated on a stool when the assailant approached him without warning. In a disturbing act, she picked up Forrest’s own metal water bottle from the ground and struck him on the back of his head. Without uttering a word, she callously walked away, leaving the musician in pain and shock.
Forrest took to social media to share the video of the assault, seeking help in identifying the attacker. Describing the incident, he stated that the woman, wearing a mustard jacket, red scarf, and gloves, fled the station and discarded her outer clothes before disappearing into a nearby Macy’s store. Despite the swift response of the NYPD, the suspect remains at large.
This is not the first time Forrest has faced such an ordeal while performing in New York City subway stations. The musician expressed his frustration and concern, stating that he no longer feels safe continuing his performances. As a result, he has made the difficult decision to suspend his subway performances indefinitely.
The video of the senseless attack has gained significant traction online, amassing 11 million views and 11,000 shares on social media platform X. Many commenters have expressed support for Forrest’s decision to prioritize his safety and well-being.
The NYPD has urged anyone with information about the attacker to come forward and contact the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish speakers. Tips can also be submitted through the CrimeStoppers website or on X @NYPDTips.
