UPDATE: Four boys were rescued while subway surfing on a moving train in the Bronx last Thursday, highlighting the increasing dangers of this risky trend. Authorities confirmed that drones from the NYPD have now saved over 200 lives since the program’s launch in November 2023, making clear the urgent need for safety awareness.
Last week, NYPD drones spotted the boys, aged 16, 15, 12, and 12, dangerously riding atop the northbound 6 express train as it sped through various above-ground stations. Footage released by the NYPD shows one boy climbing onto the train roof, crouching as it passed under the Westchester Avenue Bridge, while the others emerged from between the train cars. One boy nearly lost his balance after standing up, underscoring the perilous nature of their actions.
Following the drone’s identification of the boys, police swiftly stopped the train and apprehended them before any serious injuries occurred. The NYPD highlighted that since implementing drone surveillance, they have apprehended hundreds of individuals engaging in subway surfing, a trend that has led to tragic accidents.
In a social media post, the NYPD warned,
“It’s not a thrill. It’s a deadly risk. Our drone technology has already helped save 200 lives — spotting subway surfers before tragedy strikes. We’re watching from above. Because you matter down here. Ride inside, stay alive.”
The urgency of this warning is amplified by alarming statistics: as of July 6, 2025, three people have died from subway surfing incidents this year, compared to two during the same period last year. In total, six fatalities occurred in 2024, with five deaths recorded in 2023.
Recent casualties include Carlos Oliver, a 15-year-old who fell while subway surfing on a No. 7 train in Queens over the Fourth of July weekend. He suffered fatal injuries after losing his balance as the train approached the Queensboro Plaza Station. His sister expressed her heartbreak, stating, “I want him here, I want to hold him. Someone has to do something.”
With the rise in subway surfing incidents, authorities stress the importance of safety measures and urge parents to discuss the risks with their children. The NYPD’s drone technology is proving crucial in monitoring dangerous behaviors, but community awareness is equally vital to prevent further tragedies.
As this story develops, officials are expected to increase outreach efforts to educate the public on the severe dangers of subway surfing. Stay tuned for updates on safety initiatives and further actions from law enforcement.
