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Subway and Train-Related Electrocutions in New York City
Hae-Sun La1,2,3, Catherine Taylor4, Justin Z Goldstein1
1New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner, New York, NY.
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|April 14, 2026
Summary
New York City subway and train electrocutions, primarily from the electrified third rail, resulted in 39 deaths between 2018-2024. Most fatalities involved significant charring, with accidents being the most common manner of death.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Public Health
- Electrical Safety
Background:
- New York City's subway and commuter rail systems use a high-voltage (600-750V DC) electrified third rail.
- Electrocution incidents pose a significant risk in these transit environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the characteristics of electrocution deaths related to NYC subway and train systems.
- To identify patterns and contributing factors in these fatalities.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis of electrocution deaths.
- Data collected from January 1, 2018, to May 31, 2024.
- Inclusion of deaths occurring in NYC subway, Long Island Rail Road, and Port Authority Trans-Hudson systems.
Main Results:
- 39 electrocution deaths occurred within the transit systems.
- 27 deaths were solely due to electrocution; 12 involved electrocution and blunt trauma.
- Accidents accounted for 23 deaths, followed by undetermined (11), suicide (4), and homicide (1).
- Significant skin charring was observed in 36 cases, often with evidence of an electrical exit site.
Conclusions:
- Electrocutions in NYC's electrified transit systems are a notable cause of death, predominantly accidental.
- Characteristic burn patterns, including charring and blistering, are common indicators of electrocution.
- Understanding these patterns is crucial for prevention and forensic investigation.
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