Fake Firearm Used in Attempted Robbery at Queens F Train Station, NYPD Says

Frozen Fool Tries to Rob Man With Fake Firearm at Queens Subway Station

By Staff Reporter
Queens Voice

February 4, 2026

NEW YORK, NY - An attempted subway robbery involving a simulated firearm has the NYPD asking for the public’s help after a suspect failed to steal a cellphone from an 18-year-old victim on a Queens subway platform.

According to police, the incident happened Tuesday, January 27, 2026, around 2:00 p.m., at the 169 Street–Hillside Avenue subway station on the southbound F line. The case is being investigated by the 107th Precinct and Transit District 20.

Police say the victim was standing on the southbound platform when an unidentified male bundled up in  parka approached him from behind and pretended to have a gun. The suspect demanded the victim’s property and attempted to grab his cellphone, but the effort was unsuccessful.

Both individuals then boarded a southbound F train, and the suspect fled to parts unknown. Authorities confirmed no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

The NYPD has classified the weapon as a simulated firearm, meaning no actual gun was recovered or confirmed during the attempted robbery.

Investigators released surveillance images and a physical description in hopes the public can help identify the suspect.

The individual is described as a male who is approximately 16 to 18 years old. He was last seen wearing a black jacket with a white fur collar hood, blue surgical mask, black pants and black sneakers.

Police believe the suspect was traveling on the F train following the incident.

The NYPD is urging anyone who recognizes the individual or has information about the attempted robbery to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers or directly to the 107th Precinct / Transit District 20.

Incidents involving fake or simulated firearms in NYC subway robberies remain a serious concern for riders and law enforcement. While no weapon was confirmed in this case, police stress that the threat felt by victims is real—and such encounters can escalate quickly.

Riders are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, especially on platforms, and to report suspicious behavior immediately.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/, on X @NYPDTips. 

All calls are confidential.