The recent subway death of Malaysian immigrant Than Than Htwe in New York City has drawn widespread attention and outrage. On Tuesday, May 10, the Manhattan district attorney’s office charged a 24-year-old man, Reinaldo Gonzalez, with manslaughter in connection with Htwe’s death.
The incident occurred on the evening of November 7, 2021, when Htwe, a 58-year-old mother and grandmother, was pushed down the stairs of the Canal Street subway station in Chinatown. She suffered a traumatic brain injury and died three days later.
Gonzalez was arrested in December and initially charged with assault, but the charge was upgraded to manslaughter after Htwe’s death. According to authorities, Gonzalez was seen on surveillance footage shoving Htwe down the stairs without provocation.
The case has renewed concerns about subway safety in New York City, particularly for women and elderly commuters. It has also raised questions about how the city handles mental health issues and homelessness, as Gonzalez is believed to have been homeless at the time of the incident.
In a statement announcing the manslaughter charge, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized that the case was “a tragedy for our city.” He added, “No one should have to fear for their safety while using our public transportation system.”
The charge of manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Gonzalez is currently being held without bail and is due back in court on June 7.
The incident has led to increased calls for better safety measures and security in New York City’s subway system, including the installation of more surveillance cameras and increased police presence. It has also prompted a discussion about the need for better mental health services and support for the city’s homeless population.
Htwe’s family has also called for justice and accountability in her death. In a statement released through their attorney, they said, “We hope that justice will be served and that this tragedy will lead to positive changes in our city, particularly for the most vulnerable among us.”