MAMDANI’S NYC: Murders, robberies SURGE on subway system: NPYD data

The most recent killing involved a repeat offender who allegedly pushed an elderly man to his death on subway stairs in Manhattan. Police identified the suspect as Rhamell Burke, who was described as an “emotionally disturbed person.” Burke was taken to Bellevue Hospital’s psychiatric ward at 3:30 pm Thursday and released about an hour later. Following his release, he allegedly shoved a 76-year-old retired teacher.

Because the attack occurred above ground, the NYPD will not include it in official transit crime statistics, according to the New York Post. There have been other attacks, including when a man slashed multiple elderly people with a machete earlier this year.

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While NYPD data shows overall crime is down in the city, transit crime has increased this year. Robbery is up 18 percent in 2026 compared to the same period last year. Felony assault is down 6 percent, though it has increased 60 percent compared to seven years ago.

Misdemeanor assault is up 15 percent year over year and has risen 68 percent over the last seven years.

“What’s not surprising is that there seems to be a significant increase in certain offenses that is coupled with a decrease in enforcement,” explained Rafael Mangual of the Manhattan Institute, according to The New York Post.

The NYPD has pushed back on claims of reduced subway enforcement, saying patrol levels have not declined. A spokesperson said arrests for robbery are up 30 percent, while arrests for felony and misdemeanor assault are up 5 percent.

“Last year was the safest year on New York City’s subway since 2009, excluding the pandemic years,” the spokesperson argued.

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