Bronx, New York — A violent machete attack inside a Bronx subway station left two men injured Sunday afternoon, prompting a police search for the unidentified assailant.
The slashing occurred at the West Farms Square–East Tremont Avenue station around 4:40 p.m., marking yet another alarming incident amid ongoing safety concerns in the New York City subway system.
Police Respond to Reports of a Subway Assault
According to the NYPD, officers were dispatched to the station after receiving a 911 call reporting an assault in progress. When police arrived, they found that an attacker had approached two men on the platform and brandished a machete, slashing both before fleeing the scene.
Authorities say the attack appeared sudden and unprovoked. Witnesses described chaos as riders scrambled for safety while the suspect swung the weapon and then disappeared into the station or surrounding streets before officers could apprehend him.
Victims Sustain Injuries but Expected to Recover
The NYPD reported that the two victims suffered distinct injuries.
- A 44-year-old man was slashed in the wrist, suffering a deep wound.
- A 32-year-old man was slashed in the face, and during the attack, the suspect also stole the victim’s cell phone, adding a robbery component to the assault.
Both victims were transported to St. Barnabas Hospital, where they were listed in stable condition. Despite the severity of the attack, authorities said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Police have not released the victims’ identities.
Suspect Remains at Large
As of Monday, no arrests have been made, and investigators are actively working to identify and locate the suspect. Police described the assailant only as an unidentified individual wielding a large machete, and they have not released surveillance images or additional details.
The motive remains unknown, and detectives are reviewing video footage from inside and around the station to track the suspect’s movements before and after the attack. Officers are also interviewing witnesses who were present on the platform during the assault.
The incident adds to growing concerns regarding violent crime in the subway system, where slashing and assault cases have prompted increased patrols and heightened scrutiny from city officials.
Community Concerns Rise Amid Ongoing Safety Fears
Local commuters expressed concerns following the attack, noting that the West Farms Square–East Tremont Avenue station has seen its share of crime and disorder in recent years. Riders say the unpredictable nature of violence in the subway system makes incidents like this especially frightening.
Some residents have called for more consistent police presence at stations, particularly during late afternoon and evening hours when crowds fluctuate and platforms become more vulnerable to sudden acts of violence.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to contact law enforcement, emphasizing that tips can be submitted anonymously.
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Investigation Ongoing as Police Search for Leads
The NYPD confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and officers remain confident that surveillance footage and community cooperation will help identify the suspect. Detectives are also examining whether the attacker may be linked to other recent incidents involving large weapons or similar slashing patterns.
For now, the subway station remains open, but many riders say they are taking extra precautions until the suspect is apprehended. Transit officials are working with police to ensure additional security measures during peak commuting hours.
Share Your Thoughts
What actions do you think New York City should take to improve safety in the subway system amid rising violence? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
