NYC Subway Shove Survivor: A Story of Resilience

[]

Joseph Lynskey, 45, was shoved onto the subway tracks in Manhattan on New Year's Eve. He suffered severe injuries including broken ribs, a fractured skull, a ruptured spleen, and a concussion. Despite this horrific experience, Lynskey, a DJ known as DJ Joe Usher, told the New York Times he plans to ride the subway again.

Lynskey's ordeal highlights the ongoing issue of violence on the NYC subway system. The attack was deemed random by police, and a 23-year-old man, Kamel Hawkins, has been arrested and charged with attempted murder and assault.

Lynskey's story is not isolated. A similar incident in March resulted in a fatality. He believes city and state officials must do more to ensure the safety of subway riders. His powerful statement: "The subway is the lifeline of this city. I don’t think any New Yorker should have to stand against a wall or hold on to a pillar to feel safe as the train approaches."

In response to recent attacks, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed increasing police presence and expanding involuntary commitment laws for the mentally ill.

Lynskey, who has lived in New York for 25 years, is focused on recovery and helping others. He sees his survival as a reason to give back to the city he calls home.