Subway Assaults Lead to Arrest in Brooklyn
A man allegedly attacked several people in a Brooklyn subway station, culminating in a violent incident involving a 17-year-old girl, according to prosecutors.
Curtis Signal, 25, faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and assault. During his arraignment on Sunday night, prosecutors highlighted his troubling history of violence against women.
Assistant District Attorney Tsiyona Ransom shared details of the incident, stating that the attacks occurred on the R subway line around 53rd Street and 4th Avenue in Sunset Park. Initially, Signal confronted three women, at one point telling one to “shut up” before pushing a 51-year-old woman onto the train tracks. She sustained significant injuries, including facial lacerations.
Afterward, he punched a 44-year-old woman, causing her face to swell. Ransom described Signal’s reaction during the assault, noting that he claimed to have “done what he had to do.” He expressed feelings of needing to defend himself against what he perceived as unprovoked aggression from others.
As Signal fled the scene, he encountered the 17-year-old girl who attempted to stop him. He reportedly asked her if she was a “gangster” and admitted to punching her in the face when she got in his way.
The teenage girl was able to identify him later from a photo, and other victims recognized him through surveillance footage. Law enforcement apprehended Signal at a shelter shortly afterward, leading to the various charges against him.
During the court hearing, Signal was noted to have a “violent history.” He was seen wearing a red flannel jacket and a black hoodie. Prosecutors revealed that he is currently on probation until June 2027 due to injuries inflicted in previous incidents, including an assault on a 67-year-old woman in September.
Signal’s alleged violent background includes attacking a police officer in the Bronx and assaulting another woman and her young sister in recent years. In response to concerns about his behavior, defense attorney Jack Brewer mentioned that Signal is a local resident with a high school education.
Judge Jacob Zelmonowitz deemed Signal a “flight risk,” denying a request for bail and ordering him to remain in custody. His next court appearance is set for February 19th.
