Straphangers On Alert After String Of Robberies On F Train In Queens
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Straphangers are on alert after a series of robberies on the F train line in Queens.
The attacks happened both on board trains and at stations, police said.
The first happened just after 4 a.m. on Sept. 2. Police said a 23-year-old man was walking up the stairs of the 169th Street station when two men grabbed him from behind.
They then threw him to the ground, punched him in the face and took his wallet, police said.
Then around 9 a.m. on Sept. 30, police said two men punched a 30-year-old man on board a northbound F train and demanded his iPad. The victim got off the train at the Sutphin Boulevard station and the suspects fled, police said.
The third incident happened on Oct. 8 around 1:40 p.m. A 33-year-old man was riding a southbound F train when a man grabbed his cellphone from his hand when the train stopped at Parsons Boulevard and fled, police said.
When the victim tried to chase the suspect, a second man punched him in the face, police said.
The attacks have left many riders on alert.
"You have to be aware of your surroundings," commuter Veronica Ortiz told CBS 2's Don Champion. "It's horrible that you can't even walk around with your own personal things because you're worried about getting robbed. I think it's ridiculous."
2 Suspects Wanted In String Of Robberies On F Train In Queens
"I think it's the reality of the times," said rider Frank Richardson. "You've got to keep your stuff hidden."
"Keep my eyes open," another rider told 1010 WINS' Glenn Schuck. "People are out here, trying to work and make a living for themselves and you've got stupid people who are not doing that and they're just going to take your stuff and it's not fair."
Other riders said that they refuse to ride in fear.
"It's a great community. Don't let it deter you from traveling, just be careful and be aware," Phyllis Kontis said.
The suspects were only described as two Hispanic males in their 20s. Police have released a surveillance video.
Anyone with information was asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, visit the Crime Stoppers website or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577.
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