New York City police have named Frank R James, 62, as a person of interest in the Brooklyn subway shooting that left more than 20 people injured during Tuesday morning's rush hour. The rental key to a U-Haul van, which police say was rented in Philadelphia and may be linked to the attack, was found at the scene.
Investigators are trying to determine if James has any connection to the train. The New York Police Department (NYPD) is asking anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact a hotline. James has addresses in Wisconsin and Philadelphia and has reportedly posted videos online criticising New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
The attack unfolded shortly before 08:30 local time at Brooklyn's 36th Street station. A male attacker detonated two smoke grenades and fired a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun at least 33 times, striking 10 people. Another 13 people suffered injuries from smoke inhalation, falls, or panic attacks.
Police recovered the handgun, three extended magazines, a hatchet, and potential incendiary devices at the scene. A $50,000 reward is offered for information leading to the suspect's arrest. The gunman, described as 5ft 5in tall and 170lb, wore a construction vest, grey hooded sweatshirt, and a gas mask before fleeing.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the attack, stating, 'This insanity that is seizing our city has to stop.' The NYPD is not initially treating the shooting as an act of terrorism. The station's surveillance system reportedly malfunctioned, potentially hindering investigations.
