NYPD seeks help identifying suspect who pepper-sprayed a mother and her baby on a Queens subway train.

Law enforcement officials have released images of an individual involved in a disturbing incident aboard a subway train in Queens, where a young mother and her 11-month-old daughter were pepper-sprayed. The altercation occurred on a southbound M train at approximately 10:50 a.m. on Friday. According to the police, the male suspect, who was dressed in a black hoodie and multicolored pants, engaged in a verbal dispute with the 25-year-old mother after she refused his request to borrow her cellphone.

The confrontation escalated, resulting in the assailant spraying the mother in the face and on her arm with the irritant just as the train neared the Court Square-23rd Street station. Disturbingly, the spray also impacted the infant, causing irritation to her face and arm. Following this aggressive act, the perpetrator fled the scene, and authorities are actively working to apprehend him.

Emergency Medical Services transported both the mother and child to Mount Sinai Queens hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition but suffering from considerable pain and redness in their eyes. The mother recounted to the police that the suspect had approached her prior to boarding the train a few stops north, asking if he could use her phone. After she declined, there were no further interactions until the assault on the train, suggesting that the suspect may have followed her onto the subway.

This alarming incident has sparked concerns about safety in public transportation settings, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and protection for vulnerable passengers, especially mothers with young children.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the suspect to come forward. Individuals can contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, and all calls will be kept confidential. The released photographs of the suspect aim to assist the ongoing investigation and encourage community members to aid in the prompt identification of the individual involved in this unsettling crime.

As this story develops, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and enhancing safety measures within the public transit system.