Man arrested for slashing the face of female subway conductor in the Bronx.
In a significant development concerning public safety in New York City, police apprehended a 29-year-old Bronx man, Isiah Thompson, on Thursday in connection with a violent attack against an MTA conductor earlier that week in the Foxhurst neighborhood. Thompson faces multiple charges, including seven counts of assault, menacing, and possession of a weapon.
The arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, when Thompson allegedly approached a 36-year-old conductor of the No. 6 subway line as she made announcements onboard a train at the Whitlock Avenue station. According to police reports, Thompson confronted the conductor with aggressive language before inflicting a slash to her face, just below her left eye. The attack raised serious concerns about the safety of transit workers, with calls for tougher penalties against violence directed toward those serving the public.
Identification of Thompson was facilitated through a wanted poster distributed by law enforcement, leading to his capture by the NYPD’s Warrants Squad early Thursday morning. Video footage from security cameras at the station helped corroborate the police’s case against him, showing Thompson in a black coat, khaki pants, and carrying a backpack.
John Chiarello, president of the Transport Workers Union Local 100, expressed relief over the swift arrest. He noted the conductor, who has spent less than two years in her role, showed remarkable resilience, indicating that despite the traumatic experience, she remained in good spirits. Chiarello emphasized the importance of employee safety, labeling the act as cowardly, and underscoring the necessity for protective measures in the transit system.
NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow added his voice to the condemnation of the attack, highlighting the serious nature of such incidents and the impact they have on the workforce. He reiterated the presence of surveillance cameras throughout the subway system, stating their role in improving security for both passengers and employees.
Thompson is expected to face legal proceedings on Thursday afternoon, continuing the conversation about transit safety and the protection of workers in New York City’s transit system. As the investigation continues, public safety officials are under pressure to develop further strategies to combat violence against transit personnel, ensuring that those who serve their communities can perform their duties without fear.
