MTA drivers fears return to worker after punch by stranger

NYC subway conductor Jean Joseph faced a traumatic incident recently when a deranged stranger punched him in the face, breaking his teeth. The attack occurred while Joseph was checking to ensure all passengers were safely aboard the W train at the Ditmars Boulevard Station in Astoria. The 33-year-old MTA employee, originally from Haiti and soon to be a father, was left shaken by the unprovoked assault.

According to Joseph, the attacker appeared agitated and mumbled something about the doors closing before striking him. It is believed that the assailant may have been upset about missing the train. After the attack, the assailant quickly fled the scene when he heard Joseph calling for help over the supervisor’s radio.

The incident has left Joseph traumatized, with recurring nightmares about the attack. His fiancée is also deeply concerned, particularly in light of a previous incident in 2024 where another conductor was slashed in the neck while sticking his head out of a train window. The safety of MTA employees has become a growing concern, with Joseph’s colleague also being recently assaulted.

Following the attack, Joseph was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital for treatment of his injuries, including a cut lip and two cracked teeth. He is unsure when he will be able to return to work, as the incident has left him fearful of performing routine tasks such as sticking his head out of the window to ensure passenger safety.

The NYPD has released a wanted poster for the attacker, but as of now, no arrests have been made. Assaults on MTA employees have been on the rise, with 11 incidents reported so far this year. However, overall major transit crime, including murder, has seen a decrease of 7.8% compared to the same period last year.

The safety of MTA employees and passengers remains a top priority, and efforts are being made to address the increasing incidents of assault within the city’s subway system. The well-being of conductors like Jean Joseph is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of the transit system and the safety of all passengers.