25 May 2023 , 14:07
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A Turkish-born artist who had relocated to New York six years ago was tragically paralysed from the neck down after allegedly being forcefully shoved into a moving subway train.
Kamal Semrade, a 39-year-old man, has been charged with second-degree attempted murder and other crimes in relation to the assault that took place at a subway station in Manhattan's Upper East Side on Sunday.
During Semrade's arraignment, Assistant District Attorney Carolyn McGuigan provided distressing information about the attack.
Semrade allegedly grabbed the victim, 35-year-old Emine Yilmaz Ozsoy, by the head and forcefully propelled her into the moving subway car, resulting in severe injuries including a cervical spine fracture and a scalp laceration.
As a consequence of the assault, Ozsoy was immediately paralysed and is currently in critical condition.
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A man allegedly shoved her into a moving subway train (Getty Images)The incident took place at the Lexington Avenue and East 63rd Street station at approximately 6.05am.
Security cameras at the station captured the assault, which was also witnessed by bystanders, confirming the horrifying nature of the attack.
Ozsoy, who previously served as the head page designer at an Istanbul newspaper, had moved to New York City in 2017 with a desire to focus on her art.
According to a written statement by her husband, Ferdi Ozsoy, posted on a verified online fundraiser, she was on her way to work when the assault occurred.
Eyewitness Nancy Marrero recounted the terrifying moments she observed Semrade's alleged actions.
"I just see him walk up beside her, to her left side, and with palms open just shove her head onto the train as it moved," Marrero told NBC New York.
Ozsoy's body spun in a circle before falling onto the platform, Marrero further described.
Following the alleged attack, Semrade fled the subway station.
Ferdi Ozsoy expressed his gratitude towards the authorities and those who provided support to his wife after the horrific assault.
He acknowledged the challenging surgery that Ozsoy underwent at Weill Cornell Medical Center and expressed expectations of a lengthy recovery journey.
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Court records show the New York Police Department took Semrade into custody on Tuesday (May 23).
His next court appearance is scheduled for Friday (May 26).