The Man Pushed Onto New York’s Subway Tracks Says He Will Ride Again
A Survivor’s Story
Joseph Lynskey, a 45-year-old man, was pushed onto the subway tracks in Manhattan’s West 18th Street station on New Year’s Eve. Despite the physical and psychological trauma, he plans to make his way back to the train.
“This city is my home,” Lynskey told The New York Times, “and I won’t be intimidated.”
The Attack
Lynskey was standing on the platform after lunch when a hard shove from behind sent him flying as a 1 train approached. He landed on his left side between the tracks, suffering four broken ribs, a fractured skull, a ruptured spleen, and a concussion.
“I looked up, and I was underneath the 1 train,” he said during the interview in his Brooklyn apartment.
The Aftermath
Police called the attack, which was captured on surveillance video, random. A 23-year-old man, Kamel Hawkins, was arrested later that day and has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault charges.
Lynskey spent a week in the hospital and has been working with physical therapists and welcoming visitors while recuperating. He struggles to sleep because of his pain and has tried to avoid rewatching the surveillance video, but it was the first video TikTok’s algorithm showed him two days after the attack.
Call to Action
Lynskey’s ordeal has left him convinced that city and state officials need to do more to address the violence on the subway system. “The subway is the lifeline of this city,” he said. “I don’t think any New Yorker should have to stand against a wall or hold on to a pillar to feel safe as the train approaches.”
“Unacceptable,” he added. “Do better. Protect your citizens.”
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Response
Gov. Kathy Hochul has called for an increase in police presence on subways at night and an expansion of the state’s involuntary commitment laws to allow hospitals to compel more mentally ill people into treatment.
Conclusion
Lynskey’s story is a reminder of the importance of safety and security on public transportation. His determination to ride the subway again is a testament to his resilience and commitment to his city.
FAQs
Q: What happened to Joseph Lynskey?
A: Lynskey was pushed onto the subway tracks in Manhattan’s West 18th Street station on New Year’s Eve.
Q: What were the consequences of the attack?
A: Lynskey suffered four broken ribs, a fractured skull, a ruptured spleen, and a concussion.
Q: Who was arrested in connection with the attack?
A: A 23-year-old man, Kamel Hawkins, was arrested and has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault charges.
Q: What does Lynskey plan to do next?
A: Lynskey plans to continue his work as the head of content and music programming at Gray V and to focus on being of service to his community.
