Off-duty NYPD officer pushed onto NYC subway tracks, narrowly escapes death from approaching train, according to prosecutors.

An off-duty New York Police Department (NYPD) officer faced a near-fatal situation during a violent encounter at an East Village subway station. The incident occurred on the evening of September 24, 2025, when the 24-year-old officer was randomly attacked by 28-year-old Aaron Walker at the Third Avenue station on East 14th Street. Court documents reveal that the officer was sucker-punched and subsequently shoved onto the subway tracks, just moments before an oncoming train approached.

Fortunately, with the aid of a good Samaritan, the officer was able to scramble back onto the platform seconds before the train arrived, averting what could have been a tragic outcome. The dramatic details of the incident were unveiled during Walker’s arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court, where he was ordered to be held without bail and subjected to a psychological evaluation. He faces serious charges, including attempted murder, assault, and attempted assault.

Walker has a troubling criminal history, with 28 prior arrests and 10 felony charges to his name. In the past seven weeks alone, he has been arrested four times, primarily for shoplifting offenses. Prior incidents include a physical altercation with a fellow passenger on a C train and multiple thefts from Barnes & Noble and Target stores in Brooklyn and lower Manhattan.

On the night of the attack, the officer had just completed a police detail related to the United Nations General Assembly and was returning home when Walker allegedly approached him from behind. As the officer turned to confront Walker, he was violently pushed onto the subway tracks. Following a struggle, both men fell onto the tracks but managed to regain their footing before the fight continued on the platform.

After the incident, the officer was taken to Bellevue Hospital, where he was treated for bruising and pain in his head, neck, and arm. Concerned community members have spoken out about the officer, describing him as a good person and expressing their regret over the violent attack.

Walker, who has upcoming court appearances for his recent arrests, remains in custody as legal proceedings unfold. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety in New York City’s subway system, especially related to attacks involving homeless individuals and those with significant criminal histories.