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Update: July 12, 2025 — Police in Riverdale are actively searching for three individuals accused of robbing a taxi driver in the early hours of July 12. The incident occurred outside 58-50 Liebig Ave., a residential area in the Bronx.
According to the NYPD, the suspects approached the cab driver, sprayed him in the face with an unknown chemical substance, and then stole his wallet from the vehicle. The driver, whose identity has not been released, was not seriously injured but was treated at the scene.
Authorities describe the suspects as three people—two men and one woman—who fled the area on foot. No arrests have been made, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings.
This type of attack on a for-hire driver is alarmingly common in New York City. According to the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), there were over 400 reported robberies of taxi and livery drivers in 2024, with many occurring in the Bronx and Brooklyn. The TLC has implemented safety measures such as partition shields and GPS tracking, but driver advocates say more needs to be done.
“Drivers are vulnerable, especially late at night,” said Ahmed Hassan, a spokesperson for the New York Taxi Workers Alliance. “We need better lighting, more police patrols, and tougher penalties for those who target drivers.”
The Riverdale neighborhood is generally considered safe, but this incident has raised concerns among local residents. “I’ve lived here for 20 years and never heard of something like this,” said Maria Lopez, a Riverdale resident. “It’s scary to think it happened right on our street.”
Police are asking anyone with information to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online. A reward of up to $3,500 is available for information leading to an arrest.
In the meantime, drivers are reminded to stay vigilant, keep doors locked, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. The TLC recommends using electronic payment systems whenever possible.
As the search continues, the NYPD is urging the public to stay alert and report any suspicious activity. The case has been assigned to the 50th Precinct Detective Squad.
Key details:
Anyone with information can also contact the 50th Precinct directly at (718) 543-5700.
The NYPD reminds the public not to take matters into their own hands. If you see the suspects, do not approach them—call 911 immediately.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
