NEW YORK — The man accused of set a stranger on fire on a New York City subway train Monday on $250,000 bail after being indicted on charges including assault and battery.
Investigators said it was the second time this year that 48-year-old Nile Taylor, a homeless man, threw a flaming object at subway passengers.
The same man threw burning objects at people in February, police say
On Saturday, Taylor set fire to a can of alcohol and “without warning, attacked two strangers on the train by throwing the flaming liquid on them,” according to the Houston Street district attorney.
Police released surveillance video showing Taylor holding two objects on fire that he threw at three people at the West 28th Street station, setting the subway floor on fire in February.
“I think it’s a tragedy and it’s really shocking to hear that happen,” said Salem Althari, a subway passenger from the Upper West Side.
“It’s scary because it seems like it’s getting worse every day,” said Tasha Ouslui, a runner from Harlem.
Suspect found with lighters and bottle of rubbing alcohol
Taylor had several lighters and a bottle of rubbing alcohol with him when he was arrested Saturday, according to prosecutors.
He allegedly admitted to throwing the burning liquid before he was charged and was also accused of stealing an iPhone from a third person on the subway that day.
“To ensure safety, we need to jail some of these repeat offenders or send them to institutions where they can be treated for their psychological and psychiatric problems,” said Ruth Cohen, an Upper West Side subway passenger.
Taylor has two prior felony convictions, including criminal possession of a loaded firearm, for which he served time in state prison. He must appear in court again on Friday.
Subway passenger seriously burned
A 23-year-old passenger suffered severe burns all over his body; it was unclear when they will be released from the hospital’s burn unit.
A second person also suffered burns to the chest, according to the officer.
Lisa Rozner
