Man Set on Fire at Penn Station: Two Arrested in Connection with Arson Attack
New York City – Authorities have arrested two individuals in connection with a disturbing arson attack that left a 37-year-old homeless man with second-degree burns near Penn Station on Tuesday evening. The incident, which unfolded in the bustling transportation hub, has prompted a police investigation and raised concerns about safety in the area. Damon Johnson, 47, of Brooklyn, and Lyla Najjar, 33, of Queens, are now facing charges related to the assault, with Johnson accused of directly setting the victim ablaze. The attack underscores the vulnerabilities faced by the city’s homeless population and has sparked outrage among witnesses and community members.
The incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. Near a taxiway adjacent to Penn Station’s Amtrak rotunda. According to witness accounts, the victim was asleep when he was approached by Johnson, Najjar, and another unidentified individual. Sam Stalone, who witnessed the aftermath, described a harrowing scene: “You appear up above the escalator, there’s a gentleman on fire, flames completely engulfed, he’s running back and forth trying to get it out, people are trying to pat him down.” Amtrak police were quickly on the scene, rushing to assist the man as bystanders attempted to extinguish the flames. The victim was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment of second-degree burns to his arm and back.
Details of the Arrests and Charges
Damon Johnson was apprehended immediately following the attack. Surveillance footage reportedly shows him crouching near the victim for a period of time before igniting the man’s jacket. He has been charged with attempted murder, assault, and reckless endangerment and pleaded not guilty at his arraignment. Notably, Johnson has a lengthy criminal history, with approximately 131 prior arrests dating back to 1995 in the Bronx, according to court records. He was on parole at the time of the incident, having been convicted in 2018 of robbery, a crime that involved slashing a student’s face and stealing cash. The victim in that 2018 case required over 100 stitches to treat his injuries. Yahoo News reported details of Johnson’s extensive criminal record.
Lyla Najjar was arrested on Wednesday and charged with assault in connection with the incident. She has five prior arrests on her record. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are continuing to gather evidence and identify the third individual involved in the attack. The precise role of Najjar and the third suspect remains under investigation.
Witness Accounts and the Immediate Aftermath
The scene at Penn Station was one of chaos and shock. Witnesses described a frantic effort to help the victim as flames engulfed his clothing. “Everyone was just completely shocked, they didn’t know what happened, nobody knew what was going on, then the firefighters came,” Stalone recounted. First responders quickly extinguished the fire, providing immediate medical attention to the victim before transporting him to the hospital. The incident prompted a significant police presence at Penn Station as officers secured the area and began their investigation. The attack has raised questions about security measures in and around the busy transportation hub and the safety of individuals experiencing homelessness in New York City.
The Victim’s Condition and Ongoing Investigation
As of Thursday, March 5, 2026, the victim remains hospitalized and is receiving treatment for his injuries. Details regarding his current condition have not been publicly released, but authorities have confirmed that his burns are second-degree and require ongoing medical care. The New York Police Department (NYPD) and Amtrak Police are collaborating on the investigation, reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the attack. Detectives are seeking to determine the motive behind the arson and whether the attack was targeted or random. ABC7NY reported that detectives are still actively investigating the crime.
Concerns for the Homeless Population in New York City
This incident has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by New York City’s homeless population. Advocates for the homeless have expressed concern about the increasing vulnerability of individuals living on the streets and the need for greater support services. The Coalition for the Homeless, a leading advocacy group, has called for increased funding for shelters, mental health services, and outreach programs. The organization also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, and mental illness. The attack at Penn Station serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those without stable housing and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties
Damon Johnson, facing the most serious charges, remains held without bail following his arraignment. If convicted of attempted murder, he could face a lengthy prison sentence. The charges of assault and reckless endangerment also carry significant penalties. Lyla Najjar is also expected to face legal proceedings, and the outcome of her case will depend on the evidence presented and the severity of her involvement in the attack. Both defendants have the right to legal representation and will have the opportunity to present a defense in court. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office is prosecuting the case.
The investigation remains active, and further details are expected to emerge as detectives continue their function. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. This case highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring public safety and protecting vulnerable populations in New York City. The next court date for Damon Johnson is scheduled for March 19, 2026, where further proceedings will accept place.
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