Eric Gonzalez admits to lying about an altercation with Mr. Neely in a subway car, where he helped Daniel Penny restrain Mr. Neely.
In a recent court testimony, Eric Gonzalez, a Bronx resident, recounted his involvement in an incident that occurred on a subway car last year. Gonzalez described how he intervened in a situation where Daniel Penny was restraining a homeless man, Jordan Neely, on the subway floor. Gonzalez testified that he believed his assistance would prompt Penny to release his chokehold on Neely.
The incident took place at the Broadway-Lafayette Street station on May 1, 2023. Upon entering the subway car, Gonzalez encountered Penny and Neely engaged in a struggle. Penny had Neely in a chokehold with his arms around Neely’s neck and legs around his waist. Gonzalez immediately signaled to Penny, indicating that he would hold Neely’s arms to facilitate Penny’s release of the chokehold.
Gonzalez explained that he hoped his intervention would prompt Penny to adjust his hold on Neely. Despite Gonzalez’s offer to hold Neely’s arms, Penny did not release the chokehold. Consequently, Gonzalez proceeded to hold Neely’s arms as the struggle continued. As time passed, Neely began to resist, attempting to break free from the restraint. Eventually, Neely went limp, prompting Penny and Gonzalez to release him.
After Neely went limp, Gonzalez attempted to revive him by shaking him and placing him in a recovery position on his side. Gonzalez then checked for a pulse before deciding to walk away from the scene.
The testimony provided by Gonzalez sheds light on the events leading up to the tragic outcome of the altercation on the subway car. Gonzalez’s actions were driven by a desire to de-escalate the situation and prevent harm to Neely. However, despite his intervention, the incident resulted in Neely losing consciousness.
The details shared in Gonzalez’s testimony highlight the complexities of the situation and the challenges faced by individuals who find themselves in similar circumstances. As the trial of Daniel Penny for manslaughter continues, the testimony of witnesses like Eric Gonzalez plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind the events that transpired on that fateful day.
In conclusion, Eric Gonzalez’s testimony provides valuable insights into the incident on the subway car and the actions taken by individuals involved. The testimony serves as a reminder of the importance of intervention in potentially dangerous situations and the need for accountability in cases where harm is inflicted. As the legal proceedings unfold, the testimony of witnesses like Gonzalez will be instrumental in determining the outcome of the trial and seeking justice for the parties involved.
Source: The NY Times
