Taxi Driver Advocacy Group Demands Enhanced Safety Protocols Following Brooklyn Shootings

The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers is calling for urgent safety reforms following two violent attacks on livery cab operators in Brooklyn within the last two weeks. The organization, which represents over 175,000 drivers, is advocating for mandatory in-vehicle camera installations to assist law enforcement investigations.

The most recent incident occurred early Friday morning in Fort Greene. According to police, a 50-year-old driver was shot in the face near 99 Portland Ave shortly after 4 a.m. The victim was transported to Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and is currently listed in stable condition. No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.

This follows a similar attack on July 11 in Prospect-Lefferts Gardens. Authorities reported that a 21-year-old driver was approached by an individual near 525 Parkside Ave around 4:15 a.m. The assailant allegedly demanded money and vehicle keys before shooting the driver in the face and fleeing. The victim was taken to Kings County Hospital and remains in stable condition.

Fernando Mateo, spokesperson for the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers, emphasized the inherent dangers faced by drivers during their shifts. "Everyone that gets into your car is a stranger, every block you drive by could be a threat," Mateo stated. He noted that his organization is working to secure financial support for the victims, including the establishment of crowdfunding pages to assist with medical and living expenses.

While the federation plans to offer a cash reward for information leading to an arrest, specific details regarding the incentive are expected to be released at a press conference scheduled for Sunday. Mateo has also criticized current public safety policies, suggesting that the administration's approach to criminal justice may be contributing to an uptick in violence against transit workers and local businesses.

Official NYPD data indicates varying trends in local crime. The 88th Precinct, which covers the Fort Greene area, recorded two shooting incidents through July 19, a decrease from six during the same period last year. Conversely, the 71st Precinct, encompassing Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, has seen eight shootings through July 19, up from three in 2025. The mayor’s office did not immediately provide a comment regarding the federation's safety proposals.