Parolee arrested in new subway attack after being tracked for previously shoving someone in Manhattan.
An individual recently released from prison has been arrested once again, marking the latest incident in a concerning pattern of violent behavior. Rolan Reid, 42, was taken into custody following an assault involving a metal rod at the 14th Street and Sixth Avenue subway station in Manhattan on June 4, 2025. This incident comes nearly a decade after Reid was convicted of attempted murder for a previous attack on a transgender woman in the subway system.
According to police reports, Reid confronted a 28-year-old woman at approximately 4:10 PM, demanding to know the whereabouts of her MetroCard. In a sudden escalation, he threw the metal rod at her, resulting in a puncture wound on her left forearm. The victim received immediate medical attention and was later transported to Bellevue Hospital, where she was reported to be in stable condition.
Reid’s history of violent behavior is noteworthy. In June 2015, he was involved in a high-profile incident where he threw garbage at a transgender woman before pushing her onto the subway tracks at the Bleecker Street station. Following that attack, Reid faced serious charges, ultimately leading to his conviction for attempted murder. He was sentenced to nearly seven years in prison and was conditionally released on parole in December 2023.
The recurring incidents involving Reid raise significant concerns about the management of parolees with violent criminal histories in New York City. His latest arrest for felony assault and weapon possession adds to the discourse surrounding public safety in the subway system, particularly as crime rates in the city have been reported to decline to their lowest levels in decades.
Authorities continue to monitor Reid’s case as investigations unfold. The New York Transit system, a vital transportation network for millions, has been under increasing scrutiny as officials seek to enhance safety measures for commuters. The need for effective rehabilitation programs and thorough risk assessments for released individuals remains critical, particularly in ensuring the safety of the public in transit environments.
As discussions around crime and safety evolve, this case underscores the complexities associated with managing individuals with a history of violent offenses, prompting a broader conversation about accountability and support systems within the city’s criminal justice framework.
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