Random Assault Leaves Victim Burned
A New York City man is facing multiple charges after allegedly setting fire to a cup of liquid and throwing it at a fellow subway rider on Saturday afternoon. The victim, a 23-year-old man, suffered burns on about a third of his body after his shirt caught fire, according to the New York Post. He was able to extinguish the flames himself and is currently recovering in the hospital.
Police identified the suspect as Nile Taylor, 49. He was apprehended shortly after the attack thanks to a stolen phone. Authorities say Taylor allegedly stole a phone from another subway rider and used it, leading them to his location.
Not an Isolated Incident: Taylor Linked to Similar February Attack
While the weekend attack left a rider with significant injuries, it wasn’t Taylor’s first alleged fiery offense on the subway. Authorities also charged him with attempted assault, reckless endangerment, and arson in connection with a similar incident in February. In that case, Taylor is accused of throwing a flaming container at a group of people on a subway platform, though thankfully, no one was injured.
Subway Safety Concerns Rise Following Incidents
These attacks come amid heightened concerns about safety in the New York City subway system. While violent crime remains statistically rare on the subway, which carries millions of riders daily, several high-profile incidents this year have left some New Yorkers on edge. These include a fatal shoving incident in March and a handful of shootings.
Increased Security Measures Announced
In response to these concerns, Governor Kathy Hochul announced in March the deployment of National Guard members to augment security in the subway system. Additionally, the NYPD plans to increase their subway presence with an additional 800 officers tasked with cracking down on fare evasion.
