Subway Crime Drops Amid High-Profile Incidents
High-profile incidents of violence on New York City subways have dominated headlines, sparking fears among commuters and leaving many questioning the safety of the transit system. From a horrifying arson attack that claimed the life of a homeless woman to random assaults and stabbings, the subway system has seen its share of shocking crimes in recent months. But do these headline-grabbing events reflect an overall unsafe environment, or is the perception of danger overshadowing reality?
Violent Incidents Shake Public Confidence
Several recent crimes have left New Yorkers on edge. In December, 57-year-old Debrina Kawam was set on fire while sleeping on an F train in Coney Island, a crime described by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch as "one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being," as reported by USA Today. The suspect has been charged with first-degree murder and arson.
Other incidents followed in rapid succession. On New Year's Eve, a man was pushed onto the tracks at the 18th Street station in Chelsea. The next day, a stabbing on a 2 train at 14th Street left one person injured, and an MTA cleaner was attacked at the Pelham Parkway station in the Bronx. In both stabbings, the alleged perpetrator — who has over 80 prior arrests — was arrested.
These crimes, though horrifying, are relatively rare. Mayor Eric Adams highlighted that the subway system sees only about six reported crimes daily, a fraction of the millions of rides taken every day.
The Data Tells a Different Story
Despite these violent events, NYPD data shows overall crime on subways has decreased. Major crimes were down 5.4% in 2024 compared to the previous year and down 13% from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Subway crime also dropped by 6.3% last year, with violent crime accounting for a small percentage of incidents.
However, murders on the subway remain a troubling exception. Ten murders were recorded in 2024, tying the 25-year high reached in 2022. For comparison, New York City recorded 377 homicides citywide last year, with subway murders making up a small fraction of that total.
Addressing the Perception of Danger
Officials acknowledge that statistics don't always align with public perception. "Declining crime numbers are significant, but we still must do more because people don't feel safe in our subways," Tisch said during a press conference, according to PEOPLE.
The NYPD is ramping up its presence, reassigning 200 officers to patrol platforms and trains, with a focus on high-crime stations. Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of engaging with riders to rebuild trust and reduce fear.
Governor Kathy Hochul has also announced plans to introduce legislation expanding the state's ability to involuntarily commit individuals to psychiatric care, a move aimed at addressing mental health issues that often intersect with subway violence.
Long-Term Safety Solutions
Beyond police presence, the MTA is exploring physical safety measures. The agency plans to install platform barriers at 100 stations over the next five years as part of its 2025-2029 capital plan. However, logistical challenges have stalled efforts to implement full-length platform doors, seen in other cities worldwide.
While the subway remains statistically safer than life above ground, the unique environment — enclosed spaces and proximity to strangers — can heighten fears.
For millions of New Yorkers who rely on the subway daily, safety is a priority but so is maintaining a sense of normalcy. While violent incidents understandably spark fear, the overall picture reveals a transit system that, statistically, is becoming safer. The challenge now lies in bridging the gap between perception and reality, ensuring riders feel as secure as the data suggests.
References: Are N.Y.C. Subways Dangerous? What the Statistics Show After Recent High-Profile Attacks | Adams claims subway violence — including horrific arson attack —'overshadowed' NYC’s 2024 success on transit crime | NYC has been reeling from some high-profile crimes. Are the city and subway safe?
