May 7, 2025
Astoria Queens Last week, our city witnessed another disturbing incident on the rails when a Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) subway conductor was violently assaulted. Today, we have news that brings a measure of relief: the alleged perpetrator has been apprehended.

Nektarios Tsikitas, a 36-year-old resident of Astoria, Queens, was taken into custody on Tuesday in connection with the assault that occurred last Thursday at the bustling Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave. subway station. He now faces assault charges for the alleged attack on a 26-year-old MTA conductor.

Details emerging from the incident paint a concerning picture. The assault reportedly took place onboard a train, not on the platform itself. While authorities haven't released specific details about what transpired, the impact of the blow was significant. The force of the slap sent the conductor's glasses hurtling onto the tracks, highlighting the sudden and violent nature of the attack. Following the assault, the attacker fled the scene, leaving the conductor to seek help.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) responded swiftly and treated the injured conductor at the scene. Reports indicate the conductor suffered from dizziness and noticeable swelling around the right eye – clear indications of a forceful impact.

As of Tuesday afternoon, Tsikitas' arraignment was pending in Queens Criminal Court. It's crucial to remember that assaulting an MTA conductor carries serious consequences under the law. A second-degree felony charge for such an assault can lead to a prison sentence of up to seven years, underscoring the severity with which the justice system views these attacks on essential transit workers.

This arrest serves as a reminder that violence against those who keep our city moving will not be tolerated. We owe our MTA workers a safe and respectful environment, and the swift action in this case is a step towards ensuring that. As the legal process unfolds, we hope it brings a sense of justice and reinforces the importance of accountability for such reprehensible acts.