QUEENS, NY – A 15-year-old boy from the Bronx was killed early Thursday morning in a subway surfing accident near Queensboro Plaza, marking another tragic incident in a growing trend that has claimed the lives of multiple New York City youths in recent years.
According to the NYPD, officers from the 108th Precinct and Transit District 20 responded to a 911 call just before 3:00 a.m. and found the teenager unconscious and unresponsive on the southbound tracks at Queensboro Plaza station. The boy, identified as Carlos Oliver of the Bathgate section of the Bronx, was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators believe Oliver had been riding on top of a southbound 7 train when he lost his balance and fell to the tracks below. The accident occurred as the train approached Queensboro Plaza, a busy transfer hub for several subway lines serving both Manhattan and Queens.
The incident has sparked renewed concern from transit officials and city leaders over the dangers of subway surfing, a reckless and often fatal trend in which young people climb on top of moving trains to perform stunts or create social media content.
“This is not a game – this is suicide,” said New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow in a statement issued following the incident. “We urge parents, guardians, and all adults to talk to young people about the fatal consequences of subway surfing. No video is worth a life.”
Thursday’s fatality follows another recent subway surfing incident involving a 14-year-old boy who was critically injured while riding atop a 5 train in the Bronx. In 2023, five individuals died in similar circumstances. That number rose to six in 2024, according to MTA data.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the MTA has expanded its “Ride Inside, Stay Alive” public awareness campaign, now broadcasting audio announcements every 10 to 15 minutes on trains throughout the 7 line. The campaign features warnings voiced by professional BMX rider and Queens native Nigel Sylvester, who urges riders to avoid dangerous stunts.
Transit officials have also turned to technology in their efforts to prevent future incidents. In addition to surveillance systems and station announcements, the MTA is reportedly using drones to monitor train rooftops and identify individuals attempting to ride outside of the cars.
The MTA has also called on social media companies to take action by removing content that glamorizes or promotes subway surfing. Officials say videos of such stunts are fueling the behavior among teenagers seeking online attention and viral fame.
Carlos Oliver’s death is currently under investigation by the NYPD and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Authorities have not released further details about how the teen accessed the train roof or whether others were involved.
As the city prepares for increased transit activity during the Fourth of July holiday, officials are emphasizing the importance of subway safety and the consequences of high-risk behavior.
“This tragic incident is another painful reminder of how quickly a thrill-seeking decision can turn fatal,” said an NYPD spokesperson. “We urge all New Yorkers to respect the transit system and ride safely.”
Funeral arrangements for Oliver have not yet been announced.
Top Questions About the Queensboro Plaza Subway Surfing Tragedy
What is subway surfing?
Subway surfing is the dangerous practice of riding on the outside of a moving subway train, often on top of the cars. It is illegal and extremely risky, frequently resulting in serious injury or death. Participants, many of them teens, often record the stunts for social media.
Who was the victim in the latest subway surfing incident?
The victim was 15-year-old Carlos Oliver, a resident of the Bathgate section of the Bronx. He died after falling from the roof of a southbound 7 train near Queensboro Plaza around 2:45 a.m. on July 4, 2025.
Where did the incident happen?
The accident occurred at Queensboro Plaza station in Long Island City, Queens, a major transfer hub for several subway lines. Oliver was subway surfing on a 7 train when he lost his balance and fell onto the tracks.
What time did emergency crews respond?
Officers from the NYPD’s 108th Precinct and Transit District 20 responded shortly before 3:00 a.m. after receiving a 911 call about a person found on the tracks. EMS rushed Oliver to Bellevue Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Is subway surfing a growing trend?
Yes. There has been a disturbing rise in incidents over the past few years, especially among teenagers. According to the MTA, five people died while subway surfing in 2023, and six were killed in 2024. The trend is often fueled by social media videos and online dares.
Has the MTA done anything to stop it?
The MTA has expanded its “Ride Inside, Stay Alive” campaign with audio announcements and updated visuals. A version featuring Queens-born BMX pro Nigel Sylvester now plays regularly on trains, including the 7 line. The agency is also using surveillance technology and drones to detect rooftop riders.
Are social media platforms being held accountable?
MTA officials have called on social media companies to remove content that glorifies or promotes subway surfing, arguing that such videos contribute directly to the behavior. So far, enforcement has been inconsistent.
Has anyone been charged or cited in connection with this incident?
No. As of now, the NYPD has not reported any arrests or charges related to the death of Carlos Oliver. The investigation remains ongoing.
Was this teen alone at the time of the incident?
Authorities have not confirmed whether Oliver was with anyone else at the time. No additional injuries or arrests have been reported.
What is the city doing to prevent more incidents like this?
City and transit officials are urging parents to speak with their children about the dangers of subway surfing. The NYPD and MTA continue to monitor the transit system for risky behavior and are working together on public education and enforcement efforts.
