A woman remains in critical condition after an incident at the 53rd Street/Fifth Avenue subway station in midtown Manhattan, where she was pushed into a moving train. Sabir Jones, 39, has been identified as the primary suspect and was taken into custody in Newark, New Jersey, on Thursday afternoon, as per the New York Police Department.
The assault occurred midday Wednesday. As the train was departing, the 30-year-old victim was reportedly pushed from the platform, leading to a severe collision between her head and the moving train. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, with eyewitnesses currently providing their accounts to the police.
Following the incident, Jones left the scene. However, another individual subsequently reported being assaulted by Jones at the same station shortly before the subway episode.
Jones, known to be homeless, has had prior encounters with the police. He has been noted for his challenges with mental health and substance misuse. In November 2021, his family reported him missing in Newark. By December 2022, he faced charges related to resisting arrest in a Brooklyn subway incident.
It’s believed the victim was on her regular commute when the attack occurred. Janno Lieber, CEO of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, acknowledged the situation, highlighting the importance of ongoing safety efforts in the subway system.
