BROOKLYN, NY – In a chilling encounter that could have ended in tragedy, a livery driver in Brooklyn narrowly escaped death when a passenger allegedly attempted to rob him at gunpoint. Prince Ezenekwe, 54, was driving in Canarsie around 1:40 a.m. on Monday when the passenger’s request to return to the pickup location signaled trouble.
Often, such requests are a prelude to criminal intent, exploiting the isolation of the original location. The passenger’s ski mask further heightened the sense of danger. Ezenekwe was confronted with a terrifying ultimatum when the passenger threatened his life and aimed a gun at him.
In a moment of critical decision-making, Ezenekwe chose to accelerate away, defying the threat and potentially saving his life. Despite being shot in the face, he managed to drive to Brookdale University Hospital, where he was treated for a wound that narrowly missed a vital artery.
The assailant fled on foot, leaving Ezenekwe to grapple with the aftermath of the attack. Originally from Nigeria, Ezenekwe is now recovering, though the emotional scars may take longer to heal. Taxi-driver advocates are urging swift justice and have described Ezenekwe’s survival as nothing short of miraculous.
Fernando Mateo, representing the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers, condemned the attack and called for action against bail reform laws, which he argues allow dangerous individuals to evade justice. He emphasized that drivers like Ezenekwe risk their lives daily.
David Do, commissioner of the Taxi and Limousine Commission, underscored the need for stringent measures to protect drivers from such threats. He urged for robust legal action against those who target these essential workers.
The federation is proposing a ban on face masks for cab passengers to deter crime and has announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to the perpetrator’s arrest. Meanwhile, Ezenekwe is contemplating his future in New York City, reconsidering his career as a cab driver following the traumatic experience.