Security guard accused of punching 77-year-old woman on manhattan d train after seat dispute

New York, NY — A 77-year-old woman suffered facial injuries after a security guard allegedly punched her aboard a southbound D train in Manhattan last month during an argument over a subway seat, according to New York Police Department sources.

The assault happened around 3:25 p.m. on Friday, April 18, while the train sat at the Broadway-Lafayette subway station in Lower Manhattan. Police said the elderly woman attempted to sit next to another passenger when the confrontation escalated.

According to police sources, the suspect told the woman, “You can’t sit here, it’s too hot,” before allegedly elbowing the senior and punching her in the face.

Assault Leaves Senior With Facial Swelling

The 77-year-old victim suffered pain and swelling to her face after the attack, police said. Emergency Medical Services treated her at the scene, but officials did not report that she was transported to a hospital.

Investigators said the suspect fled the train immediately after the assault and remained at large as of this week.

Police described the suspect as a woman last seen wearing a black uniform with “Arrow Security” printed on the sleeve along with black boots. Authorities have not released the suspect’s name or additional identifying details.

The alleged attack unfolded in broad daylight at one of Manhattan’s busiest subway stations, underscoring ongoing concerns about violence and rider safety throughout New York City’s transit system.

Search Continues for Suspect

The NYPD has not announced any arrests in the case.

Detectives are continuing to investigate the incident and are asking members of the public to help identify the suspect. Officials urged anyone with information about the assault to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS.

Transit-related assaults involving elderly riders often draw heightened concern because of the increased risk of serious injury for older victims. In this case, investigators said the confrontation began over seating before quickly turning physical.

Despite the relatively brief encounter, the victim suffered visible injuries, according to police sources.

Key Points

• A 77-year-old woman was allegedly punched aboard a Manhattan D train on April 18
• Police say the suspect wore an “Arrow Security” uniform and fled the scene
• The victim suffered facial pain and swelling and received EMS treatment

Incident Happened at Broadway-Lafayette Station

The Broadway-Lafayette station serves multiple subway lines and sees heavy passenger traffic daily. Police have not said whether surveillance footage captured the incident, though the station and subway cars are typically equipped with security cameras.

Authorities also have not said whether the suspect worked in an official security capacity at the time of the incident or why she was wearing the uniform.

The case remains under investigation by the NYPD, and no charges have been filed as detectives continue searching for the suspect.

NYPD investigation

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