June 17, 2025 BRONX, NY – A terrifying subway surfing incident in the Bronx has left a teenager in critical condition, underscoring the deadly risks of the trend just one week after the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) launched its latest campaign to combat it.

The victim, identified by police as being between 14 and 16 years old, is currently fighting for his life at Jacobi Hospital. He sustained severe head and wrist injuries in the harrowing incident, according to authorities.

The near-fatal event unfolded Monday afternoon, shortly after 4 p.m., at the Baychester Avenue station. As the 5 train approached the northbound platform, the teen reportedly fell onto the track bed and made contact with the moving train, a police source confirmed.

"Ride Inside, Stay Alive": A Desperate Plea Amidst Escalating Dangers

This tragic incident comes on the heels of the MTA's new public safety initiative, aptly named "Ride Inside, Stay Alive." The campaign, rolled out just last week, is a direct appeal to young people, urging them to steer clear of the perilous and often fatal activity of subway surfing.

Beyond public awareness, the MTA is actively exploring technological solutions. The agency has confirmed it's currently testing tubular barriers installed between select subway cars. These barriers are designed to make it significantly more difficult for individuals to climb onto the roof of a train. Transit President Demetrius Crichlow recently told CBS News New York's Elijah Westbrook that initial observations suggest the equipment is proving effective.

A Grim Tally: The Escalating Cost of Subway Surfing

The statistics paint a grim picture of the escalating dangers associated with subway surfing. The MTA reports at least one fatality from subway surfing so far this year. The year 2024 saw a shocking toll: six deaths, 15 injuries, and 229 arrests related to the illicit activity, according to data from the NYPD.

As authorities continue to investigate this latest incident, it serves as a stark and urgent reminder of the critical importance of heeding safety warnings and choosing life over thrill-seeking.