NEW YORK -- Six pedestrians, including a 9-year-old boy, were injured when a taxi cab jumped the curb in Herald Square on Christmas Day, December 25. The incident occurred at approximately 4:03 p.m. as the cab was moving northbound on Sixth Avenue.
According to New York City Police Department (NYPD) reports, the 58-year-old taxi driver experienced a medical emergency, which led to the cab veering off the road and onto the busy sidewalk near Macy's flagship store. The injured pedestrians included the young boy, who sustained injuries to his right thigh, and two women aged 41 and 49, who were also transported to local hospitals.
All three hospitalized individuals are reported to have suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The taxi driver was taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue for evaluation, and he remains in stable condition. Police stated there is no suspicion of criminal intent behind the incident.
Eyewitness accounts reveal the chaos following the crash. A man visiting from Oregon shared his experience with local news outlet WABC, describing how he and other bystanders rushed to help as they noticed the mother and her son pinned beneath the cab. "I ran over and noticed there was a little boy; his leg was underneath the front passenger tire as it was spinning," he recounted. Good Samaritans acted quickly, managing to lift the cab and rescue the child, who was later taken to the hospital with his mother.
Several other pedestrians were also involved: three women aged 19, 37, and 49 declined medical attention at the scene. According to police reports, the injuries were largely minor, and all those transported to the hospital are currently stable.
The NYPD has confirmed they are investigating the incident but have not provided details on the specific nature of the taxi driver's medical episode. A spokesperson reiterated, "No criminality is suspected" at this stage of the investigation.
Herald Square, known for its heavy foot traffic, especially during the holiday season, has become notorious for pedestrian accidents, prompting discussions about safety measures. The area draws both locals and tourists alike for its festive decorations and shopping opportunities.
Despite this incident, many shoppers remained at Herald Square, with the vibrant atmosphere of the season persisting. This accident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers present even during joyous celebrations.
