Home / Crime and Justice / Masked Menace Sprays Bear Repellent on NYC Subway, Injuring 8
Masked Menace Sprays Bear Repellent on NYC Subway, Injuring 8
4 Aug
Summary
- Masked man sprayed bear repellent on crowded NYC subway train
- Incident occurred after dispute over bike blocking train door
- 8 commuters injured, taken to hospital in stable condition

On the evening of August 3rd, 2025, a disturbing incident unfolded on a crowded New York City subway train. A masked individual, wearing camouflage, caused a commotion after his bicycle was obstructing the door of a southbound No. 4 train at the 14th Street-Union Square station.
When another commuter confronted the man about his bike blocking the entrance, the agitated biker reacted by spraying bear repellent into the train car as he stepped out onto the platform. This triggered a state of panic, as 8 straphangers were injured by the noxious fumes.
Four victims were transported to Lenox Hill Hospital in stable condition, while the other four were treated at the scene. Thankfully, none of the injured were children or senior citizens. Photos from the incident show people covering their faces and fleeing the station, including at least one child.
The suspected sprayer, described as a man in his 30s last seen wearing a green camouflage mask, managed to evade authorities and had not been apprehended as of Monday afternoon. This comes just over a month after a similar bear spray attack at a Pride event in Washington Square Park, which left dozens injured.
Authorities are actively investigating this latest subway incident, which has left commuters shaken and concerned about their safety on public transportation. The search continues for the masked menace responsible for this reckless and dangerous act.