A dramatic testimony unfolds in a Manhattan courtroom as witnesses recount the final moments of Jordan Neely's life during a confrontation on a New York City subway.
According to the New York Post, an 18-year-old witness's 911 call played during Daniel Penny's manslaughter trial revealed that Neely was "trying to attack everybody" before the former Marine subdued him with a chokehold.
The courtroom heard testimony from Moriela Sanchez, who made the emergency call requesting police and medical assistance during the incident. Her video evidence, captured through the subway car window, showed first responders attempting to revive an unresponsive Neely. The dramatic scene unfolded on an uptown F train, where multiple witnesses described feeling threatened by Neely's behavior before Penny's intervention.
Nike senior brand manager Caedryn Schrunk provided compelling testimony about the moments leading up to the incident. She described Neely's behavior as "satanic" and recalled feeling genuine fear for her life. The witness noted Neely's visible distress and soiled clothing, adding context to the tense atmosphere within the subway car. Her testimony highlighted the conflicting emotions felt by passengers during the incident.
Johnny Grima, a former homeless individual, offered a different perspective on the events. He described arriving at the scene after the chokehold and attempting to assist Neely by applying water to his forehead. Grima's testimony included criticism of Penny's behavior, particularly his resistance to allowing others to help Neely after releasing the hold. The contrasting accounts underscore the complexity of the case.
Sanchez's testimony became particularly emotional when questioned about her feelings during the incident. She admitted feeling relief when Penny intervened but expressed concern about the intensity of his restraint. The courtroom atmosphere remained tense, with one unidentified woman leaving in tears during the testimony.
Three NYPD officers provided testimony regarding the emergency calls and their response to the scene. Officer Isatou Ceesay's bodycam footage revealed Penny's initial explanation of the incident. During this interaction, Penny explained his military background and described Neely's threatening behavior on the train.
Defense attorney Thomas Kenniff requested a mistrial, citing concerns about prosecutorial conduct and witness testimony that he believed could prejudice the jury. The judge denied this request, allowing the trial to continue. The legal team maintains that Penny acted to protect other passengers and should not face criminal charges.
The proceedings have drawn significant public attention, with protesters gathering outside the courthouse demanding justice for Neely. The trial, expected to last up to six weeks, carries serious implications for Penny, who faces a potential 15-year prison sentence if convicted.
A tense exchange between Penny's attorney and witnesses revealed conflicting accounts of the chokehold's necessity and duration. Through multiple recordings and witness statements, the jury gained insight into the chaotic scene that unfolded in the subway car. Penny's legal team continues to emphasize their client's protective intentions while prosecutors maintain their pursuit of criminal charges.
Neely's uncle, Christopher Neely, expressed satisfaction with the prosecution's presentation of evidence and maintained hope for a just outcome. The case continues to highlight broader concerns about public safety, mental health, and the use of force in crisis situations.
The fatal subway confrontation between Daniel Penny and Jordan Neely occurred on May 1, 2023, at the Broadway-Lafayette station in Manhattan. The incident began when Neely reportedly exhibited threatening behavior on an uptown F train, leading to Penny's intervention with a chokehold that ultimately resulted in Neely's death.
The trial continues in Manhattan Supreme Court, where a jury will determine whether Penny's actions constitute criminal manslaughter. With extensive witness testimony, video evidence, and emergency response recordings presented, the proceedings are expected to continue for several more weeks as both prosecution and defense teams present their cases.
