BROOKLYN, NY – A late-night ride in Canarsie turned into a nightmare for a livery driver when a passenger allegedly attempted to rob him and fired a shot, grazing his face. The incident occurred around 1:40 a.m. on Monday, leaving 54-year-old Prince Ezenekwe with a minor wound but a major scare.
The trouble began when the passenger asked Ezenekwe to return to the pickup location, claiming to have forgotten something. This request raised immediate suspicion, as such locations are often chosen for their seclusion, providing an opportunity for criminal activity. Adding to the unease, the passenger was wearing a ski mask.
Ezenekwe recounted the harrowing moment when the passenger threatened his life. “He said he would have to kill me and took everything I had,” Ezenekwe recalled, describing the gun pointed at his head. Despite the danger, Ezenekwe made a split-second decision to hit the gas and escape.
This quick thinking likely saved his life, as Ezenekwe managed to drive himself to Brookdale University Hospital after hearing the gunshot and realizing he had been hit. “I don’t know if the bullet went in, but I knew I was shot,” he said. The bullet missed a critical artery by less than an inch, according to taxi-driver advocates.
The suspect fled on foot, and authorities have yet to make an arrest. Ezenekwe, originally from Nigeria, is recovering in stable condition. The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers has praised Ezenekwe’s survival as a miracle and is demanding justice.
Fernando Mateo, a spokesman for the federation, expressed indignation at the incident, stating, “Our drivers risk their lives every night. Prince nearly paid with his life. The person who shot Prince should be in jail.” The federation is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to address bail reform laws, which they believe contribute to such crimes.
David Do, commissioner of the Taxi and Limousine Commission, emphasized the importance of protecting drivers who work tirelessly to ensure public safety. He called for the prosecution of those who commit crimes against for-hire drivers to the fullest extent of the law.
Additionally, the federation is advocating for legislation to make wearing face masks illegal in cabs, arguing that it would help identify potential criminals. They have offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to the suspect’s capture and conviction.
Ezenekwe, who has lived in New York City for 25 years, is now reconsidering his future as a cab driver and contemplating leaving the city.