Earier today, a livery cab driver was discovered severely injured following a stabbing incident in the Soundview section of the Bronx. The victim, a 39-year-old man, was located inside his Toyota SUV bearing TLC livery license plates around 2:30 a.m. near Randall Avenue and White Plains Road, according to ABC7 New York. Multiple stab wounds were found on his back and lower abdomen.
At Jacobi Hospital, the victim was listed in critical but stable condition after undergoing emergency surgery. The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers (NYSFTD) has announced a $5,000 reward for information to help quickly bring to justice the perpetrator of what they describe as "an attempted murder and a danger to every New Yorker." In a statement obtained by ABC7 New York, NYSFTD Spokesman Fernando Mateo urged that "Someone out there knows something and must come forward."
The Gothamist identified the injured man as Osei Kusi and noted his connections to a family in Ghana. Kusi’s uncle, Samuel Cudjoe, related the shock of the unfortunate event, having encouraged his nephew to pursue the taxi profession based on his own three-decade experience. "I feel bad because he never argue with nobody," Cudjoe told Gothamist, conveying his disbelief over the violent attack on his traditionally non-confrontational nephew.
NYPD is actively seeking witnesses and has requested the public to call the Crime Stoppers hotline with any pertinent information. While the police work to download video footage from Kusi's car, the federation reminds the community of the inherent risks faced by those who serve the city. NYPD officials noted to the Gothamist that felony assaults in the 43rd Precinct are keeping pace with the previous year's figures.
As the investigation continues, officials note that livery cab drivers often face safety risks on the job. The community is urged to stay alert and help law enforcement with any information that may assist the case.
