MANHATTAN — The NYPD is searching for a man accused of deliberately setting a homeless passenger on fire aboard a northbound 3 train early Monday morning at the 34th Street–Penn Station subway stop.

According to police, the incident occurred shortly after 3 a.m. when the suspect approached a 56-year-old man inside a subway car. Investigators say the individual briefly entered the train, ignited the victim, and then quickly exited onto the platform before the train departed.

The victim sustained serious burns and was transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities have not released his identity. His condition remains serious.

Surveillance footage released by the NYPD shows a man believed to be responsible for the attack. Police are asking the public for assistance in identifying and locating him. The motive has not yet been disclosed.

The attack has renewed concerns about subway safety, particularly during overnight hours when trains are less crowded and vulnerable individuals often seek shelter inside cars. The 34th Street–Penn Station station is one of the city’s busiest transit hubs, serving thousands of commuters daily and connecting to Amtrak, LIRR, and NJ Transit.

While overall transit crime statistics fluctuate year to year, high-profile incidents such as this continue to fuel debate over public safety measures, mental health outreach, and protection for homeless riders who rely on the subway system for warmth and shelter.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers.