Queens Man Charged with Murder in Fatal J Train Stabbing

Jyrell Thomas, 25, faces murder and criminal possession of a weapon charges in connection with a fatal stabbing on a J train in Queens. The incident occurred Wednesday, October 1, 2026.

Police said Thomas paced on the train before approaching Mesias Lojano, 59. Lojano attempted to move away, but authorities said Thomas attacked him with a kitchen knife. The altercation continued onto the train platform. Bystanders pursued Thomas.

Witness Bismarck Villareyna recorded the attack and chase. Villareyna heard shouts, saw the assault, and followed Thomas onto a rooftop, directing police to the suspect. After his apprehension, Thomas reportedly said, "Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to do it." Police described Thomas as emotionally disturbed and took him for a psychiatric evaluation.

The stabbing marks the subway system's sixth homicide this year, exceeding last year's total of four and 2024's ten. Subway assaults have increased 7% this year, with 441 incidents reported compared to 410 at this time last year.

Thomas was arrested last month for robbery at a Bronx Target, where he allegedly stole $23 in merchandise. He faced charges of petit larceny, obstruction of governmental administration, and criminal possession of stolen property in that case.