Amira Hunter, a 23-year-old woman with an eight-count prior arrest record, was apprehended in connection with a violent incident involving a cellist in the New York City metro. The assault transpired on February 13, during his performance at the Herald Square station, when Hunter allegedly struck 29-year-old cellist Iain S. Forrest in the head with a metal water bottle. The incident was documented on video. Forrest was traumatized and hesitant to recommence his musical performances as a result of the assault.
Manhattan prosecutors requested a $15,000 cash bail or $45,000 bond during Hunter’s arraignment on charges of second-degree assault. They justified their request by referencing her prior record of court non-compliance and a bench warrant issued for her arrest in cases pertaining to petit larceny. In light of these apprehensions, Judge Marva Brown issued Hunter supervised release without bond, a ruling that prompted inquiries in light of Hunter’s prior assaults and criminal record, which included grand theft charges.
Since the assault, Mount Sinai PhD candidate Forrest has been profoundly affected and has been hesitant to perform his cello. Forrest’s decision to permanently suspend his subway performances as a participant in the MTA’s Music Under New York program underscores the criticality for enhanced safeguards for musicians within the transit system. To advocate for heightened security measures, Forrest and his fellow musicians have established the Subway Performers Advocacy Group as a reaction to the attack and others of a similar nature.
Hunter’s apprehension draws attention to the persistent concern regarding the safety of passengers and performers in the transit system of New York City. Violence will not be tolerated, as the MTA has stated in its dedication to assuring the safety of all transit system users, including musicians.