SUNSET PARK, Brooklyn — A man was arrested following a string of violent subway attacks that left multiple women injured over the weekend. The incidents occurred on Saturday morning at the R train station located at 53rd Street and 4th Avenue, raising concerns about safety in transit systems.
Benita Frias, 43, was one of the victims who suffered severe injuries during the assaults. Family members report that Frias, who works overnight as a home health aide, was returning home when she was suddenly attacked. Her daughter, Isamar Duran, described the assault as completely unprovoked. “My mom didn’t even see him coming; there was no interaction,” she said.
According to authorities, the attacks began around 8:30 a.m. when Curtis Signal, 25, pushed a 51-year-old woman onto the subway tracks before targeting Frias and subsequently assaulting a 17-year-old girl. The violent spree has shocked the local community, with calls for enhanced safety measures in public transport.
In the aftermath of the attacks, Frias underwent surgery and is now recovering, although her family reports she is deeply traumatized. “She has severe bruising on her face and head, and her knee is badly injured,” Duran mentioned. The other victims are stable, and the family is hopeful for Frias’ recovery.
Signal has a lengthy criminal history, with nine prior arrests spanning five years, primarily related to assault. Notably, two of those incidents occurred within the transit system. As he is currently on probation, questions are being raised about why he was allowed to remain on the streets. “It’s concerning to see someone with a record like his out in public. It makes no sense,” Duran remarked.
The community is reacting with fear and frustration, calling for more stringent measures to prevent such random acts of violence. Signal appeared in court on Sunday and is being held without bail while facing multiple assault charges. Witnesses reported that during his arrest, he claimed, “I did what I had to do,” a statement that further unsettles those affected.
As residents in Sunset Park rally for greater safety measures, the incidents have rekindled discussions about the effectiveness of current protocols in transit systems. Community leaders urge the city to take immediate action to restore a sense of security for commuters.