New York City subway has always had its share of character. But a recent viral story is highlighting a much darker reality for women navigating the underground. TikTok creator Samantha Mennella (@sammennella) shared a terrifying account of a subway assault that has reached over 1 million viewers. And it could happen to anyone.
Samantha’s story echoes the vulnerability many feel during their daily commute. Two weeks ago, Samantha was sitting on a train, minding her own business, when she noticed a man standing uncomfortably close in her peripheral vision. What followed was a targeted act of aggression that has sparked a massive debate about city safety and the bystander effect.
The ‘Loogie’ assault in the subway and the platform chase
The incident began when the man intentionally spat a “huge loogie” onto Samantha’s chest. When she didn’t initially move out of fear, he did it a second time. When she finally jumped up to move to the other side of the car, the man followed her, screaming in her face, “Why are you f***ing scared of me?.”
The nightmare continued onto the platform at Brooklyn Bridge. Samantha attempted to speed-walk away, but the 6’3″ man stayed just a few feet behind her, still screaming. At one point, she was forced into a terrifying “dance” around wooden benches. She even hid behind another commuter, trying to keep a physical barrier between herself and her harasser.
Everyone was silent and no one helped her
Perhaps the most depressing part of the story is the reaction, or lack thereof, from the people around her. Samantha recalls everyone on the platform staring at the commotion, yet no one intervened. In a desperate move, she stood behind a male stranger and looked at him for help. His response? A non-committal “Mmm” and a refusal to get involved…