NYPD Cop 'Ignoed' Burning Woman: He 'Did his Job Perfectly'!

Jenny Lee December 25, 2024 | 10:11

Joseph Gulotta, the NYPD's transportation chief, dismissed criticism that an unidentified officer 'ignored' a woman running in a New York subway car, claiming he "did his job perfectly."

The tragic death of a woman in a New York City subway station has ignited widespread condemnation of the NYPD, particularly regarding the actions of an unidentified officer caught on camera during the incident. The officer, seen walking past the woman who was on fire instead of intervening, has drawn criticism from the public, social media users, and community leaders alike. The incident has raised serious questions about duty, humanity, and the bystander effect in urban emergencies.

Learn more: Fact-Check: An Alleged Cop 'Ignored' Burning Woman, Amelia Carter, on NYC Subway

An unidentified police officer appears to walk by without rendering aid

The Incident and NYPD’s Response

The horrific scene unfolded on a busy Sunday in the NYC subway, as a woman was engulfed in flames in a crowded station. Eyewitness footage shared online revealed the officer walking by without taking immediate action to help extinguish the flames. The NYPD referred media inquiries to their Monday press conference, where Joseph Gulotta, Chief of Transit, defended the officer’s actions.

During the briefing, Gulotta stated, “He did his job perfectly as his fellow officers went and got [transit] workers, got fire extinguishers and eventually, were able to extinguish the individual.” Gulotta emphasized that multiple officers responded to the incident and commended the officer for securing the crime scene and maintaining order.

However, critics argue that these explanations fall short, especially given the visible inaction in the video. The footage has amplified public anger, sparking a renewed debate over the responsibilities of law enforcement and the moral obligation to assist individuals in immediate danger.

Video - An alleged NYPD officer walks right past the woman burning alive on NYC subway:

Social Media Reactions: Outrage and Parallels to the Bystander Effect

Social media erupted with indignation, as users condemned both the officer's perceived indifference and the crowd's failure to intervene. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) became a hub for heated discussions, with many comparing the incident to the infamous Kitty Genovese murder, where bystanders reportedly failed to act during a brutal attack in Queens in 1964.

“Seeing actual video footage of no one doing anything, including two NYPD officers, as a woman was burning alive, is disturbing,” wrote one user. Another commented, “Cops walked by her on fire. People watched and refused to intervene. Of all the things I have witnessed in my life, this is by far one of the most horrifying things I have seen. Not because it was graphic, but because it was 'no big deal' to everyone watching and filming it.”

These reactions highlight a growing discontent with what many perceive as a societal decline in compassion and moral responsibility. Critics were particularly aghast that no one in the crowd, including the officer, used their jacket or other means to smother the flames.

Learn more: Watching 'Woman Burned Alive' on Subway: Humanity's Frozen Heart in Modern New York

The identity of the woman who was burned alive in the subway is unknown

Authorities have not yet disclosed any details regarding the case's victim. Officials say she is still unidentified in the criminal complaint, and they call her Jane Doe. According to the criminal complaint filed by the medical examiner's office, she died as a result of smoke inhalation and burn injuries.

Community and Public Sentiment

The public's response has been a mix of grief, anger, and disillusionment. Community members and advocacy groups have voiced frustration over the incident, arguing that it underscores systemic issues in law enforcement training and accountability.

“An officer’s first duty is to protect life,” said a community organizer during a vigil held near the site of the tragedy. “This wasn’t just a failure of one officer but a failure of humanity.” Many attendees at the vigil echoed similar sentiments, urging reforms to ensure officers are better prepared to handle such crises in the future.

Others pointed to the broader implications of bystander apathy. “It’s heartbreaking to think that in a city as diverse and vibrant as New York, a woman could be left to die in front of so many people without anyone stepping in to save her,” remarked a local resident.

Lessons and Calls for Change

The tragedy has reignited discussions about the need for comprehensive training in crisis response for law enforcement. Critics have called for mandatory courses on first aid, fire safety, and situational ethics to better prepare officers for emergencies.

The incident has also served as a grim reminder of the bystander effect, raising questions about collective societal values. Advocacy groups have proposed public awareness campaigns to encourage proactive intervention during emergencies, emphasizing that even small actions can make a difference.

Conclusion

The death of the woman in the NYC subway and the perceived inaction of the NYPD officer has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting deeper issues of accountability and humanity in moments of crisis. While the NYPD has defended the officer’s actions, public sentiment overwhelmingly demands answers and reforms. Beyond the tragedy itself, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of compassion and moral courage in both law enforcement and society at large.

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