Police in New York City are searching for a masked gunman who allegedly shot a 21-year-old cab driver in the face during an overnight armed robbery in Brooklyn. The attack occurred around 4 a.m. on Saturday, according to a statement from the New York Police Department (NYPD). The suspect targeted a TLC-licensed livery cab, a type of vehicle typically used for pre-arranged rides rather than street hails.
Authorities said the suspect entered the vehicle and threatened the driver, demanding money and the keys to the cab. As the driver attempted to exit the vehicle, the suspect opened fire, striking him in the face. “The victim proceeded to exit the vehicle when the unidentified individual discharged a firearm striking the 21-year-old male victim in the face,” police said. The suspect then fled the scene on foot after stealing an unknown amount of currency. Police noted that nothing else was taken from the vehicle.
Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene after receiving reports of the incident at approximately 4:15 a.m. The victim was transported to a local hospital in stable condition. The NYPD described the shooting as non-fatal. The driver, whose identity has not been released, remains hospitalized.
The NYPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect. He was last seen wearing blue shorts, a black sweatshirt, a black surgical mask, and black shoes, and was carrying a black backpack. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can call 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips can also be submitted through the NYPD Crime Stoppers website or on X at @NYPDTips.
The shooting has raised concerns about the safety of livery cab drivers, who often work late-night shifts and are vulnerable to robberies. Livery cabs, unlike yellow taxis, cannot be hailed on the street and must be booked in advance, but they still face risks from passengers with criminal intent. The incident occurred in Brooklyn, a borough that has seen a rise in violent crime in recent months, though overall crime rates in New York City have fluctuated.
This attack is part of a broader pattern of violence against taxi and ride-hail drivers in major U.S. cities. In recent years, several drivers have been robbed, assaulted, or killed while on duty. Advocacy groups have called for better safety measures, including protective barriers and panic buttons, as well as increased police patrols in high-risk areas. The NYPD has not indicated whether the suspect is believed to be connected to other similar crimes.
The investigation is ongoing. Police are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and interviewing witnesses. The suspect remains at large, and authorities have not released a detailed description of his face due to the mask. The NYPD has not announced any additional security measures for livery drivers in response to the incident.