NEW YORK CITY (latestsports) — A 23-year-old man accused of randomly shoving a subway commuter onto the tracks at Manhattan’s 18th Street station is now facing serious charges, including attempted murder, police said.
Kamel Hawkins has also been charged with second-degree assault following the frightening incident, which unfolded just after 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon. Authorities say the attack was unprovoked, targeting a complete stranger who was standing near the platform’s edge.
Caught on Camera
The shocking episode was captured in a video obtained by The New York Post. The footage shows Hawkins, wearing a hood, pacing dangerously close to the edge of the subway platform. Meanwhile, the victim, a man whose identity has not been released, appeared to be looking at his phone as a southbound 1 train approached.
In a sudden and chilling move, Hawkins allegedly shoved the unsuspecting man onto the tracks. Witnesses screamed in horror as the victim landed on the rails.
A Narrow Escape
Miraculously, the man was able to climb back onto the platform with the help of bystanders before the train arrived. He was shaken but sustained only minor injuries. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after, and he was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation.
Arrest and Charges
Hawkins fled the station immediately after the incident but was apprehended by police a short time later. The motive for the attack remains unclear, with authorities describing it as a random act of violence.
“This was a terrifying and completely unprovoked assault,” a police spokesperson said. “We commend the quick actions of both the bystanders and officers who ensured the victim’s safety and the suspect’s capture.”
Rising Concern Over Subway Safety
The incident has reignited concerns about safety in New York City’s subway system, where unprovoked attacks have been on the rise in recent years.
“This is yet another reminder that we need to prioritize mental health services and increase the presence of officers in the subway system to ensure commuter safety,” said a local community advocate.
City officials have vowed to address these concerns with more visible patrols and support services aimed at preventing such attacks.
What’s Next for Hawkins
Hawkins is currently in police custody and is expected to be arraigned later this week. If convicted of attempted murder, he could face significant prison time.
Authorities have urged anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers hotline.
For many commuters, this incident serves as a stark reminder to remain vigilant, even in familiar surroundings. “It’s scary because it could happen to anyone,” one subway rider remarked. “You’re just trying to get to work or home, and something like this happens.”
