A homeless man with over 40 arrests and a history of mental illness was arrested for attacking and attempting to rape a woman on a Midtown subway train, police said Friday.
Attack on Subway Train
The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Tyriek Martin, was on a W train approaching the 42nd St. station in Times Square around noon on Thursday.
He grabbed a 34-year-old woman, slammed her head into a pole, and threw her to the floor, trying to rape her, according to the police.
Victim’s Brave Fight
The woman was alone with Martin on the train but fought back. When the train reached the station, she screamed for help.
Several construction workers rushed in, grabbed Martin, and held him down until the police arrived. The victim suffered a fractured nose and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Multiple Charges Filed
Martin has been charged with attempted rape, sexual abuse, and misdemeanor assault. He is currently homeless and staying at the Bowery Mission in downtown Manhattan.
According to police, he has been arrested more than 40 times for various offenses, including robbery, drug possession, misdemeanor assault, and public lewdness.
History of Violence
Martin was last arrested just days before this incident, but that case is sealed. In August, he was charged with misdemeanor assault for punching a woman in the head and face.
In April 2022, he was charged with assault for throwing an aerosol can at an NYPD traffic agent. In May 2021, he was accused of hitting a 2-year-old child in the face with a suitcase while the child was in a stroller.
Legal Complications
Both the 2022 and 2021 assault cases were dismissed after Martin was found unfit to stand trial, according to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
Typically, in such cases, suspects are sent to a mental health facility for up to 90 days. Details about Martin’s treatment were not clear as of Friday.
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Previous Arrests and Release
After the August assault, Martin was given a desk appearance ticket and released under supervision. He is due in court next Thursday for that case.
Meanwhile, his arraignment for the attempted rape charge is pending in Manhattan Criminal Court.
Community Concerns and Safety
This incident has raised concerns about safety in the NYC subway system, especially involving repeat offenders with a history of mental illness.
Authorities are reviewing how to better protect commuters and prevent such attacks in the future.
This terrifying incident highlights the bravery of bystanders who intervened and the need for continued focus on mental health and public safety.
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