Brooklyn Man Charged in Attempted Murder for Upper East Side Subway Shove

Suspect accused of pushing two victims onto subway tracks, leaving one in critical condition

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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A 34-year-old Brooklyn man named Bairon Hernandez is facing attempted murder and other charges for allegedly shoving two people, including an 83-year-old Air Force veteran, onto the subway tracks on the Upper East Side on Sunday. One victim is fighting for his life after suffering serious injuries including bleeding on the brain.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing safety concerns around New York City's subway system, with a rise in the number of subway push incidents in recent years. It also raises questions about mental health resources and security measures at transit stations to prevent such violent attacks.

The details

According to authorities, Hernandez is accused of coming up behind 30-year-old Jhon Rodriguez on the southbound F and Q platform at the Lexington Avenue and 63rd Street station and shoving him onto the tracks. He then allegedly shoved 83-year-old Air Force veteran Richard Williams onto the tracks as well, causing Williams to suffer serious injuries including bleeding on his brain. Both victims were pulled to safety before the next train arrived.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, March 10, 2026 on the Upper East Side.
  • Hernandez was taken into custody on Tuesday morning, March 12, 2026.

The players

Bairon Hernandez

A 34-year-old Brooklyn resident who is facing attempted murder and other charges for the subway shove incident.

Jhon Rodriguez

A 30-year-old victim who was shoved onto the subway tracks by Hernandez.

Richard Williams

An 83-year-old Air Force veteran who was also shoved onto the subway tracks by Hernandez, leaving him in critical condition with serious injuries.

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What they’re saying

“Thank God there's wasn't a train coming. The hardest part is I can't have a conversation, or hug him again.”

— Samantha Loria, Granddaughter of victim Richard Williams (CBS News New York)

“They should have more security at train stations.”

— Jhon Rodriguez (CBS News New York)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Bairon Hernandez to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This violent subway shove incident underscores the need for improved safety and security measures in New York City's transit system, as well as greater access to mental health resources to prevent such attacks in the future.