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NYPD Investigates Whether Times Square Rider Set His Own Pants on Fire

The NYPD is investigating an incident at the 42nd Street–Times Square station after a 55-year-old man was found with burns to his legs. Officials say burned skin and charred paper were discovered on the train, but surveillance footage shows no suspects. The man reportedly altered his story and later admitted fabricating his initial claim, prompting investigators to examine whether he set his own pants on fire. He was hospitalized in stable condition and no arrests have been made.

05:37 AM, 12/02/2025Security

New York City police are investigating an incident at the 42nd Street–Times Square subway station after a 55-year-old man was found with burns to his legs early Monday morning.

Officers responded shortly after 3 a.m. to a report of an assault in progress on the platform. The man told officers he had been sleeping aboard a 3 train when someone set his pants on fire.

Sources told reporters that investigators found what appeared to be burned skin on a train seat and charred paper inside the car. However, surveillance footage has not shown any suspects or bystanders committing the act.

According to those sources, the man—who appeared to be homeless—changed his account several times and later said he had fabricated his initial claim. Authorities are now working to determine whether the burns were caused by an assault or if the man ignited his own clothing.

The injured man was taken to Weill Cornell Medical Center in stable condition. No arrests have been made and the investigation remains ongoing.

Note: Reporter David Hammelburg contributed to the coverage of this incident.

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