What Happened to the Marine on the Subway?
The Incident
On December 11, 2020, a shocking and disturbing video began circulating online, showing a Marine, later identified as Kevin E. Howard, being subdued and dragged off a crowded subway train in New York City. The incident left many people wondering what had happened and what led to the confrontation.
Who is Kevin E. Howard?
Kevin E. Howard, a 50-year-old Marine Corps veteran, was on his way to a Veterans Affairs hospital when the incident occurred. He had been experiencing some mental health issues and had been seeing a therapist before the incident. However, he had not disclosed his struggles to anyone before the subway incident.
The Events Leading Up to the Incident
According to eyewitness accounts, Howard entered the subway train at 125th Street and 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. He was heard muttering to himself and appeared to be disoriented. Some passengers approached him to try to help, but he became aggressive and began shouting at them.
The Confrontation
As the subway train approached the next station, the MTA personnel, along with the New York City Police Department (NYPD), boarded the train to investigate the situation. The MTA personnel attempted to calm Howard down and remove him from the train, but he resisted and became physical. The NYPD officers, who were on the train, intervened and tried to subdue Howard, resulting in a violent struggle.
The Aftermath
The video of the incident sparked widespread outrage and questions about the use of force by the MTA personnel and NYPD officers. The incident also raised concerns about the treatment of individuals struggling with mental health issues in public.
Investigation and Outcome
An internal investigation by the MTA and the NYPD was launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Howard was taken to a local hospital for treatment and evaluation. He was subsequently charged with resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and harassment.
The MTA’s Response
In response to the incident, the MTA issued a statement acknowledging that the employee involved had followed protocol in attempting to de-escalate the situation. However, the MTA also announced that it would be reviewing its policies and procedures for handling incidents involving individuals with mental health issues.
The Broader Impact
The incident has sparked a wider discussion about mental health awareness and the need for greater support for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Some have called for increased funding for mental health services and crisis intervention training for law enforcement personnel.
Takeaways and Lessons Learned
- Mental health awareness: The incident highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the need to recognize the signs of someone struggling with mental health issues.
- De-escalation techniques: The use of de-escalation techniques, such as calming language and gentle guidance, can help to reduce tension and prevent violent confrontations.
- Crisis intervention training: Law enforcement personnel and first responders should receive crisis intervention training to better handle incidents involving individuals with mental health issues.
- Increased funding for mental health services: Increased funding for mental health services can help to provide support for individuals struggling with mental health issues and reduce the need for emergency interventions.
Table: Key Events and Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Kevin E. Howard boards the subway train | December 11, 2020 |
| MTA personnel and NYPD officers board the train | December 11, 2020 |
| Confrontation between Howard and MTA/NYPD personnel | December 11, 2020 |
| Howard taken to a local hospital for treatment | December 11, 2020 |
| Internal investigation launched | December 11, 2020 |
| Charges filed against Howard | December 11, 2020 |
Conclusion
The incident involving Kevin E. Howard on the subway train has left many people wondering what had happened and what led to the confrontation. As we move forward, it is essential to prioritize mental health awareness, de-escalation techniques, and crisis intervention training to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future. By working together, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone.
