Shocking NYC Subway Assault: Medical Resident Anton Aleshin Accused of Pushing 73-Year-Old Man Into Moving Train on New Year’s Day
The NYC subway assault involving medical resident Anton Aleshin and a 73-year-old victim has raised alarms in 2026, with charges of attempted murder highlighting Bronx subway crime, unprovoked attacks, and ongoing public transit safety concerns for commuters nationwide.
A terrifying unprovoked incident unfolded in the early hours of January 1, 2026, at the 161st Street–Yankee Stadium subway station in the Bronx. Anton Aleshin, a 29-year-old Russian national and medical resident at Brookdale University Hospital in Brooklyn, allegedly shoved a 73-year-old man into the side of a moving southbound No. 4 train.
The victim, identified in reports as Julio or Luis Figueroa—a grandfather returning home from a casino in Yonkers—was knocked unconscious, suffering head injuries including a serious cut. Miraculously, he fell back onto the platform rather than under the train and is expected to recover at Lincoln Hospital.
Aleshin was arrested at the scene after witnesses pointed him out. Police say he admitted to the push, which appeared entirely random with no prior interaction. He may have been intoxicated, though details remain under investigation. Charged with attempted murder, assault, reckless endangerment, and harassment, Aleshin pleaded not guilty at arraignment. His attorney described him as dedicated to healing, a stark contrast to the allegations.
Background on Aleshin: A former doctor in Russia, he joined Brookdale’s residency program in 2024 as a trainee in organized healthcare education. The hospital has not commented publicly.
Family reactions poured in swiftly. The victim’s goddaughter, Venis Falu, told reporters her uncle is a quiet man who “doesn’t bother anybody.” She hopes sharing his story prevents future incidents, adding, “It made no sense.”
Experts and officials note this as the city’s first reported subway shoving of 2026, amid broader efforts to curb transit crime. Despite increased police presence and declining overall rates, random attacks persist, echoing past high-profile cases. Transit safety advocates call for more mental health resources and platform barriers.
Public outrage has been intense, with social media users expressing shock over the suspect’s medical background. Many demand stricter oversight for professionals in training, while others highlight vulnerabilities for elderly riders.
For U.S. readers, especially in urban areas, this incident underscores persistent subway safety fears, impacting daily commutes, tourism, and quality of life. It could influence policy debates on public transportation funding, mental health interventions, and crime prevention tech like cameras and barriers. Economically, such events affect rider confidence and local businesses near stations. In a broader context, they fuel discussions on immigration and professional licensing for foreign-trained doctors amid healthcare shortages.
As the case proceeds, authorities continue investigating motive. The victim’s recovery offers hope, but the event serves as a grim reminder of urban risks.
The NYC subway assault by medical resident Anton Aleshin on a 73-year-old victim, involving attempted murder charges, Bronx subway crime, and unprovoked attacks, intensifies calls for enhanced public transit safety measures across America.
By Sam Michael
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