Violent incidents at Coney Island subway station raise safety concerns

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Recent violent events at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station have raised serious concerns about safety in New York City's transit system.

Community leaders, local officials, and residents are now demanding stronger measures to ensure public safety.

A brutal attack on a 16-year-old Black teenager last week has drawn widespread condemnation.

The victim was assaulted by a group of teenagers who reportedly yelled racial slurs, threw a banana at him, and repeatedly punched and kicked him while he was on his way to school. The attack, captured on video and shared widely on social media before being removed, is being investigated as a hate crime.

One suspect, also 16 years old, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including hate crimes and robbery.

The victim's mother, Monique White, expressed her anguish during a public safety town hall meeting held Friday night at Coney Island Cathedral Church. "No one should be beating on you or fighting you for the color of your skin," she said, while noting that her son is recovering from the traumatic incident.

Civil rights leader Rev. Kevin McCall and Councilman Justin Brannan hosted the town hall to address the community's concerns.

Rev. McCall emphasized the need for proactive measures ahead of the summer months, stating, "We must not be silent when these things happen".

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry assured attendees that all individuals involved in the attack would be apprehended. Meanwhile, Councilman Brannan criticized the city's decision to cut funding for youth programs designed to ensure safe passage for students traveling to and from school.

This is not the first violent episode at the subway station.

In December, a woman was tragically set on fire while sleeping on a subway car. The suspect in that case is currently awaiting trial. Additionally, just last week, another 16-year-old was stabbed in the leg during an altercation at the same station.

Despite an overall 22% drop in subway crime during the first ten weeks of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, felony assaults remain high.

In response to these incidents, NYPD officials have increased patrols at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station. Lieutenant Clifford Strong confirmed that additional officers are now stationed across platforms and mezzanines 24/7 to enhance security.

Community members voiced their frustrations during the town hall meeting. One attendee remarked, "More than ever, Coney Island is at a divide."