
The man who narrowly survived a harrowing incident on New York City's subway system, when he was pushed onto the tracks in front of an oncoming train, has issued a statement of gratitude to those who assisted him during and after the attack on New Year's Eve. Joseph Lynskey, a 45-year-old DJ known as Joe Usher and a music industry professional, was waiting at the 18th Street and 7th Avenue station when the suspect, 23-year-old Kamel Hawkins, allegedly shoved him onto the tracks. Remarkably, Lynskey managed to survive what could easily have been a fatal encounter.
In an update on his GoFundMe page, which is nearing its goal to help cover the cost of his recovery, Lynskey thanked "the first responders who saved my life on New Year’s Eve, the bystanders—especially the good Samaritan outside the train who provided comfort—and to the medical teams at Bellevue for their remarkable care in helping me begin my recovery. I am full of gratitude for every single one of you," according to a statement obtained by NBC New York. Despite the traumatic event, Lynskey is expected to make a full recovery, although he faces a lengthy process of healing both physically and emotionally. The injuries sustained included a fractured skull, broken ribs, and a ruptured spleen.
Authorities have arrested Hawkins on an attempted murder charge, with law enforcement sources telling amNewYork Metro that Lynskey was able to identify Hawkins as his attacker. Surveillance footage from the station captured the chilling moment of the push. Kamel Hawkins was located and detained by transit police who conducted a thorough search in the subway. He had been previously accused in unrelated incidents, carrying charges ranging from assault to harassment.
The suspect's father, Shamel Hawkins, has expressed shock over the allegations against his son. He indicated recent concerns over his son's mental health and also suggested that his son might have received marijuana that was laced, influencing his behavior in the lead-up to the New Year's Eve incident. "We think somebody put something in his weed," Shamel Hawkins told the New York Post. "About three weeks ago he was all right and then he started acting weird. We wanted to get him help but he refused." In the midst of this complex and distressing situation, both families face a tumultuous period as they deal both with the aftermath of the event and the forthcoming legal process.
Hawkins remains in custody without bail and is awaiting further court proceedings.