Additional Coverage:
- Subway rider who helped restrain man in NYC chokehold death says he wanted ex-Marine to ‘let go’ (newsbreak.com)
Subway Witness Testifies in Manslaughter Trial
In a Manhattan courtroom, a witness named Eric Gonzalez described the chaotic scene on a subway last year, where an ex-Marine, Daniel Penny, restrained Jordan Neely in a chokehold. Gonzalez intervened, urging Penny to loosen his grip.
Prosecutors allege that Penny’s actions caused Neely’s death by holding him in the chokehold for nearly six minutes. However, Penny’s defense argues he was protecting himself and others from a troubled individual.
Gonzalez, a casino manager who often rides the subway, testified that he did not witness any prior events leading to the confrontation. He simply wanted to defuse the situation.
Video footage showed Gonzalez grabbing Neely’s arms and wrist while Penny continued to choke him. Gonzalez later checked Neely’s pulse and placed him in a recovery position before leaving.
Defense attorneys questioned Gonzalez’s account, noting that his testimony evolved over time. They also pointed out that Gonzalez initially believed Neely had attacked him, but surveillance footage contradicted his claim.
The trial has sparked public debate about safety and disorder in the city’s transit system. Penny has become a symbol for some on the right, while Neely is remembered by racial justice activists.
Gonzalez expressed concerns about potential public backlash against his testimony, stating that he feared for his safety and family.