NYPD Hunts Suspect After Man Sexually Abuses 73-Year-Old Woman on Queens Subway Train

Woman Sexually Assaulted on Queens Subway Train

The New York City Police Department is searching for a man after an elderly woman was sexually assaulted aboard a No. 7 subway train in Queens on Friday evening.

The attack happened at around 8:30 p.m. when an unidentified man exposed his genitals and pressed against the buttocks of a 73-year-old woman while riding the train. When the train arrived at the Vernon Boulevard station, the man fled and vanished into the night. No arrests have been made.

NYPD Releases Photos of Suspect

Police have released surveillance photographs of the man they are looking for and are urging the public to help identify him. The suspect is described as slim with blond hair and a neck tattoo. He was last seen wearing a blue hat and blue shirt and carrying a black backpack.

NYPD Requesting Public Help in Subway Sexual Assault

Anyone with information is asked to contact the NYPD immediately. Tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) and entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

The factual information above was sourced from pix11.com as of June 8, 2026.

The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.

What to Do If You Are Sexually Assaulted on a New York City Subway

Sexual assault on the New York City subway system is a serious and underreported problem that leaves many victims feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of where to turn. We sat down with New York sexual abuse attorney Thomas Giuffra to talk about the legal rights of victims, what steps to take immediately after an attack, and how the law may hold both perpetrators and the MTA accountable for what happens on the city's trains and platforms.

Q: Can someone who is sexually abused on a New York City subway take legal action?

A: Absolutely. Victims have the right to pursue both criminal and civil legal action. On the criminal side, the attacker can face charges ranging from forcible touching to sexual abuse. On the civil side, a victim may be able to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for the physical and emotional harm they have suffered.

Q: Can the MTA be held responsible for a sexual attack that happens on one of its trains?

A: That is a question worth asking in every case. The MTA has a legal duty to provide a reasonably safe environment for passengers. If there is evidence that inadequate security, a lack of personnel, or malfunctioning cameras contributed to an attack, the MTA may bear some level of liability. These cases require a careful look at the specific facts and circumstances.

Q: What should a victim do immediately after an attack?

A: The first step is to report the incident to police right away and seek medical attention, even if there are no visible physical injuries. Victims should also try to preserve any evidence, including clothing, and write down everything they remember about the attacker and the location of the incident. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible is also important, because there are strict deadlines that apply when filing claims against a public authority like the MTA.

Q: Are there time limits that victims need to be aware of?

A: Yes, and this is something people often do not realize until it is too late. If you plan to file a claim against the MTA, you are generally required to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident. Missing that deadline can cost you the right to recover compensation entirely. Speaking with an attorney quickly after an attack can make all the difference.

Q: What kind of compensation can a victim recover?

A: Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Sexual abuse on a subway can leave lasting psychological trauma, and the law recognizes that. No amount of money erases what happened, but holding those responsible accountable can be an important part of the healing process.

You Do Not Have to Face This Alone — Call Us Today

If you or a loved one has been sexually assaulted on a New York City subway, time is not on your side. Strict legal deadlines can determine whether you are able to recover the compensation you deserve, and every day that passes matters. Attorney Thomas Giuffra offers free, confidential consultations to victims and their families who are ready to understand their rights and explore their options. Call our office today and take the first step toward holding those responsible accountable.