QUEENS, N.Y. — A 34-year-old Astoria man has been charged with assault and other crimes after allegedly pepper spraying a mother and her 11-month-old daughter on an M train in Long Island City, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Friday.
Edward Vargas, of 12th Street in Astoria, was arraigned on charges of second- and third-degree assault, second-degree reckless endangerment, and endangering the welfare of a child. Authorities say Vargas confronted the mother on the platform of the 36th Street M and R subway station around 10:50 a.m. on June 20 after she ignored his request to use her cell phone.
Vargas allegedly followed the mother and child onto the train, sat across from them, and sprayed them with pepper spray, causing the woman to suffer burning eyes, difficulty breathing, and redness to her face. The baby was left crying with redness on her face and arm.
Both victims were treated at a local hospital following the attack.
Prosecutors pursue child endangerment charge
Queens prosecutors described the incident as “particularly outrageous,” emphasizing that families should feel safe riding the subway without fear of random violence.
Judge Glenda Hernandez ordered Vargas to return to court on July 1. If convicted, he could face up to seven years in prison.
Assistant District Attorney Chrystina S. Lopera of the Special Victims Bureau is handling the case, with oversight by Bureau Chief Eric Rosenbaum and Deputy Bureau Chief Brian Hughes.
The case remains pending as the defendant awaits his next court appearance.
