2 slashed in dispute over lit cigarette on Manhattan subway train
LOWER MANHATTAN, New York City -- Two men were slashed during a dispute over a lit cigarette on a Manhattan subway train Tuesday afternoon, according to police.
The incident happened aboard a southbound A train near Canal Street just before 2:30 p.m.
Authorities say the 51-year-old suspect apparently began smoking on the train, and when two male passengers asked him to stop, he displayed multiple box cutters and slashed them.
A 49-year-old man suffered a laceration to the head, while the other, age 67, was treated for a slash wound to the right ankle.
The suspect, Elston Howell of Inwood, has been charged with reckless endangerment, assault and criminal possession of a weapon.
Police say Howell has nine prior arrests, for assault and marijuana possession.
The investigation is ongoing.
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