A woman left paralyzed after being pushed onto a moving subway train in New York City confronted her assailant in court, sharing her struggles and trauma. Emine Yilmaz Ozoy expressed that she hasn’t experienced a moment of peace since the incident in 2023, stating, “I am in this state because of his evil actions.”
She described the immense pain and difficulties she’s faced over the past three years. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and numerous therapy sessions, she can no longer pursue her career. Each day is a challenge, as she depends on others for basic needs, all while grappling with insecurity and financial stress.
Kamal Semlade, the man responsible for the attack, was sentenced to 20 years in state prison after being found guilty of attempted murder and first-degree assault. The judge, Althea Drysdale, labeled the attack “extremely disturbing,” noting Semlade’s lack of remorse.
On May 21, 2023, Semlade followed Ozoy onto a train, then attacked her at the Lexington Avenue 63rd Street station, pushing her head and neck into a moving subway car. The impact caused her severe injuries, including fractured vertebrae, resulting in paralysis from the shoulders down.
After fleeing the scene, Semlade returned to a shelter where he had been living, inadvertently leading to his arrest two days later after shelter staff recognized him from a police alert.
District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized the profound impact the attack had on Ozoy, declaring it had “uprooted her life” and resulted in permanent injuries. Despite her ongoing recovery, Ozoy has begun to regain some independence and continues to document her journey toward healing. She reflected on the arduous rehabilitation process, stating that each small step requires tremendous effort, patience, and dedication.
