Prosecutors have decided not to file charges against the 32-year-old man who opened fire on a crowded New York City (NYC) subway on Thursday, critically injuring one person.
The decision taken by the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office was founded on evidence supporting self-defense, according to a statement made by the office’s spokesperson, Oren Yaniv.
“The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, but at this stage, evidence of self-defense precludes us from filing any criminal charges against the shooter.”
According to the police and a cell phone footage, the incident unfolded when a 36-year-old man, armed with a knife and a gun, entered the northbound A train in Brooklyn around 4:45 p.m. and became involved in a dispute with the 32-year-old rider, potentially over a seat.
The altercation quickly escalated when a woman accompanying the 32-year-old stabbed the 36-year-old in the back. In response, the older man pulled out his gun, prompting a physical struggle during which the younger one managed to disarm him.
Shots rang out as the train approached the Hoyt-Schermerhorn station, leaving the 36-year-old man critically injured with gunshot wounds to his neck, chest, and face, as well as two stab wounds to his back.
Terrified commuters on the NYC subway train and platform scrambled for cover as the chaos unfolded, with police officers stationed nearby responding swiftly to the gunfire.
While the 32-year-old shooter’s identity has not been released, the woman accused of stabbing the 36-year-old is being sought for questioning on potential assault charges.
Authorities also revealed that the initial aggressor had a criminal history with 10 prior arrests, and had entered the subway system without paying the fare just minutes before the shooting occurred.
The NYC subway incident has raised questions about the city’s approach to fare evasion enforcement, with NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey stressing the potential consequences of ignoring such violations.
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist in piecing together the events that led to this chaotic and violent encounter on the city’s transit system.
To assist them, please call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS.
