Man Burned in New York Subway, Reportedly Recants Attack Story
The Spin
Right narrative
Whether this was an attack or self-inflicted, it shows, yet again, that major cities have descended into lawless chaos where people are set on fire on subways and serial offenders roam free after arrest. The criminal justice system, particularly in New York City, has completely broken down, protecting criminals while prosecuting those who defend themselves. Coming after a previous incident of a criminal setting someone on fire, it appears that city officials still don't care about safety.
Left narrative
Crime has plummeted to historic lows across America, with murders dropping 20% in major cities and on track to hit a 65-year low in 2025. The pandemic-era spike has been completely erased through restored social cohesion and proper law enforcement funding. Sensational subway incidents, which are swiftly dealt with, as in this case, don't change the data-driven reality that New York City is safer now than it has been in decades.
Metaculus Prediction
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.1