Subway Worker Attacked During Daylight Theft Attempt in Brooklyn

A subway employee recuperating from brain surgery was violently assaulted by two women at a Brooklyn station, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday in the broad daylight during an apparent fare dispute.

The NYPD is actively searching for the suspects involved in the attack.

Around 1:15 p.m., Marshalee Reid, 51, was working on the mezzanine of the New Lots Avenue station on the 3 line. Despite her recent surgery, Reid was assisting an elderly passenger at the emergency gate when one woman jumped the turnstile, followed by another who slipped through an open emergency exit.

As Reid tried to explain the need for fare payment, the women suddenly turned violent. Allegedly, they beat her, with one brandishing a set of keys and slashing her. She was punched multiple times on her face and body. The suspects fled before emergency services arrived, and Reid was transported to Brookdale Hospital in stable condition.

The suspects were described as two women, both approximately 25 to 30 years old with light complexions. The first woman wore a black t-shirt, multicolored shorts, and white shoes. The second was seen in a pink shirt, blue jeans, and black sandals, with short orange hair, according to surveillance footage.

Law enforcement is urging the public’s help in identifying and locating the women. Transit officials, along with union representatives, are determined to see justice served. Robert Kelley, Vice President for stations, hopes the suspects will face at least seven years behind bars. Reid emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “There are consequences for their crime. I want people to know that they have to stop assaulting city workers.”

While security measures have been increased, recent crime statistics show that subway assaults have continued to rise, with a 9% increase in felony attacks from 2024 to April 2025, and a notable 55% surge compared to 2019.