YU Student Assaulted at 181st Street Subway Station in 'Unbiased Attempted Robbery'

Authorities launch investigation after student attacked by group of masked assailants

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Yeshiva University student was attacked by a group of 6-8 masked assailants at the 181st Street subway station in New York City on Thursday evening. The student was taken to the hospital but has since returned to campus. YU officials described the incident as an 'unbiased attempted robbery' and are coordinating with law enforcement authorities.

Why it matters

The attack on the YU student raises concerns about safety and security in the Washington Heights neighborhood, which is home to the university's main campus. The incident also highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring the safety of visibly Jewish institutions and individuals in New York City.

The details

According to reports, the attack occurred around 7 p.m. at the 181st Street and St. Nicholas Avenue subway station. The student was reportedly assaulted by a group of 6-8 masked individuals. The victim was taken to the hospital but has since returned to campus. YU officials described the incident as an 'unbiased attempted robbery' and said they are coordinating with law enforcement authorities.

  • The attack occurred at approximately 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Rabbi David Bashevkin

A clinical assistant professor of Jewish values at the Sy Syms School of Business at Yeshiva University.

Aiden Harow

The Yeshiva Student Union President (YC '26).

Anti-Defamation League's New York and New Jersey office

A civil rights organization that is aware of the reported incident and is connecting with law enforcement, community partners, and Yeshiva University to learn more.

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What they’re saying

“I implore the NYPD to track down those responsible and put them behind bars where they belong.”

— Aiden Harow, Yeshiva Student Union President (YC '26) (The Commentator)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the assailants out on bail.

The takeaway

This attack highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring the safety of visibly Jewish institutions and individuals in New York City, and the need for a comprehensive plan to address security concerns in the Washington Heights neighborhood where Yeshiva University's main campus is located.