Jordan Neely – The Tragic Subway Incident that Sparked a National Debate in 2024
Jordan Neely, a talented Michael Jackson impersonator, died in May 2023 after a chokehold was applied by Daniel Penny on a New York subway train. Neely had a history of mental health struggles, including schizophrenia and depression, and had experienced significant personal trauma. The incident has led to ongoing debates about mental health care, public safety, and the appropriate use of force in handling public crises. As of December 2024, the trial of Daniel Penny continues, with defense and prosecution offering differing views on the cause of Neely's death. What Happened to Jordan Neely? On May 1, 2023, Jordan Neely was on a New York City subway train when he began to exhibit erratic behavior, reportedly expressing feelings of hunger and distress. Witnesses reported that he made threats towards other passengers, which led to a response from Daniel Penny, a former Marine. Penny, along with two other passengers, restrained Neely by placing him in a chokehold, which ultimately led to Neely’s death. Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old Michael Jackson impersonator from New York City, tragically lost his life on May 1, 2023, after a confrontation on a subway train. His death, which followed a chokehold applied by Daniel Penny, has been the focal point of debates on mental health, public safety, and the use of force in urban settings. As we move into December 2024, the case continues to unfold, with discussions on justice, accountability, and the treatment of individuals in mental health crises taking center stage.
Read more: What Did Jordan Neely Do