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14-year old killed, another teen injured subway surfing across Williamsburg Bridge
By
Christopher Werth
and
Arya Sundaram
Published May 23, 2026
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Benjamin Lowy/Getty Images
By
Christopher Werth
and
Arya Sundaram
Published May 23, 2026
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One teenager was killed and another is in critical condition after falling from a J train while subway surfing across the Williamsburg Bridge, according to city officials.
Police say officers responded to a 911 call just before 6 p.m. Friday. A 14-year old boy fell several stories from the bridge and into a lot near Delancey Street and Lewis Street. An 18-year old was found on the subway tracks on the bridge.
Both were unconscious and responsive, an NYPD spokesperson said. Emergency responders transported the teens to Bellevue Hospital. The 14-year old was pronounced dead and the 18-year old is in critical condition.
Their names are not being released pending family notification.
“This is a preventable tragedy,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in a statement late Friday. “Subway surfing is deadly.”
Yvette Boria, 59, said she was trying to cross the bridge when police and emergency personel responded and witnessed medics trying to assist the two teens.
"We saw all the ambulances and police officers," Boria said. "Kids don't learn. Do they not realize what they're doing?"
NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow issued a statement calling the incident “heartbreaking.”
“I’m imploring families, friends, teachers and others coming into contact with teens engaging in these suicidal stunts to get them to stop.”
This is a developing story that may be updated.
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new york city
public safety
Christopher Werth
Christopher is a senior editor focusing on investigations. Got a tip? Email [email protected] or Signal 646-939-6511
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Arya Sundaram
Arya is a reporter covering race and justice. Got a tip? Email: [email protected] or reach Arya on Signal at 512-650-8767.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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