The New York City Police Department (NYPD) is actively searching for six individuals who are accused of storming the subway tracks as a demonstration for justice following the death of Jordan Neely.
On Saturday night, the NYPD arrested 13 people in connection with the protests, and they are now seeking to apprehend six additional individuals.
The clashes between protesters and the police took place at the Lexington Avenue 63rd Street Station, where demonstrators jumped onto the tracks, causing an inbound train carrying hundreds of passengers to come to a sudden halt.
The protests were sparked by the controversial subway death of Jordan Neely, who was reportedly experiencing a mental breakdown on the subway platform.
Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old Marine veteran, allegedly put Neely in a chokehold along with two others, contributing to his death.
The incident was captured on video and quickly went viral.
The medical examiner’s office determined that Neely’s death was a homicide caused by compression on the neck.
Daniel Penny was briefly taken into custody for questioning but was subsequently released, leading to widespread outrage across the city.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has launched an investigation into Neely’s death, reviewing videos, examining the medical examiner’s report, and conducting interviews with witnesses to determine if charges are warranted.
The case may potentially go before a grand jury this week.
In response to the events, Richard Davey, the president of New York City Transit, expressed concern about the dangers posed by individuals jumping on subway tracks.
While he supports peaceful protests, Davey emphasized that such actions not only disrupt service but also endanger the lives of civilians and first responders who could come into contact with the electrified third rail.
The law firm representing Daniel Penny issued a statement asserting that he and others acted in self-defense to protect themselves when Neely began aggressively threatening them and other passengers.
However, it remains uncertain how the argument of self-defense will play out in court.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of the six wanted protesters to come forward and assist in their apprehension.
The NYPD continues its efforts to maintain public safety and investigate the incident at the Lexington Avenue 63rd Street Station.
