A chaotic scene unfolded late Sunday night on a crowded Manhattan train car when a masked individual sprayed bear repellent, injuring eight passengers. The incident occurred at 14th Street-Union Square when the suspect, wearing a camouflage mask, got into a dispute with another commuter over his bike blocking the train door.
The situation escalated when the agitated individual sprayed bear repellent into the train car before exiting onto the platform, causing panic among passengers. Four victims were hospitalized in stable condition, while four others received treatment on the scene. Fortunately, none of the injured were children or senior citizens.
Witnesses described a dense “fog” in the air, with some individuals covering their faces as they fled the station. Photos from the scene captured the aftermath, including the discarded canister of bear spray left behind by the suspect. A photographer at the scene experienced a burning sensation on his arms and face, which was alleviated by washing with milk.
The suspect, believed to be in his 30s and wearing a green camouflage mask, managed to escape and remains at large as of Monday night. This incident comes on the heels of a similar bear spray attack at Washington Square Park, where 47 people were treated by EMS and four others were hospitalized in stable condition.
Authorities are investigating both incidents to determine the motive behind the bear spray attacks. It is crucial to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious behavior to prevent future incidents.
