Attempted Terrorist Attack in New York City Subway - December 11, 2017

On December 11, 2017, an attempted terrorist attack took place in New York City when a pipe bomb partially detonated in the subway system. This incident occurred during the morning rush hour, around 7:20 AM, in a passageway connecting the Times Square and Port Authority Bus Terminal stations, one of the busiest transit hubs in the city.

The Incident

• Perpetrator: The attack was carried out by Akayed Ullah, a 27-year-old Bangladeshi immigrant. Ullah had attached the pipe bomb to his body using Velcro and zip ties.
• Device: The explosive device was a homemade pipe bomb, which Ullah had constructed using materials such as a metal pipe, match heads, sugar, and Christmas tree lights.
• Detonation: The bomb partially detonated, causing a limited explosion. The blast resulted in injuries to four people, including Ullah himself, who sustained burns and lacerations.

Immediate Response

• Emergency Services: First responders, including the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and Fire Department of New York (FDNY), quickly arrived at the scene. The area was evacuated, and subway services were temporarily suspended.
• Investigation: The NYPD and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) launched an investigation into the incident. Ullah was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for treatment.

Motive and Background

• Motivation: Ullah claimed that he was inspired by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and carried out the attack in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes in the Middle East.
• Background: Ullah had been living in the United States since 2011, having entered the country on a family immigrant visa. He worked as a taxi driver and electrician.

Aftermath and Legal Proceedings

• Charges: Ullah faced several charges, including using a weapon of mass destruction, bombing a public place, and providing material support to a terrorist organization.
• Trial and Sentencing: In November 2018, Ullah was found guilty on all counts. In April 2021, he was sentenced to life in prison.

Broader Impact

• Security Measures: The attack prompted discussions on improving security measures in public transportation systems. Authorities emphasized the importance of vigilance and the need for enhanced surveillance and emergency preparedness.
• Public Reaction: The incident heightened concerns about terrorism in urban areas, particularly in New York City, which has been a target for past attacks.

This attempted attack, while not resulting in fatalities, underscored the persistent threat of terrorism and the importance of coordinated efforts to prevent such incidents. The swift response by law enforcement and emergency services was crucial in minimizing the impact of the attack.