Recently, several cyclists have reported that while crossing the pedestrian pathway on the Marine Parkway Bridge at the southern end of Brooklyn, they were cut by thin lines at head and neck height, suspected to be kite strings or fishing lines. In June this year, a rider was hospitalized after a similar incident, sparking widespread community concern and safety doubts. The police have not classified the incident as a criminal case, but MTA has increased patrols and urged caution.
Some speculate that the source of these thin lines may be kite strings that fell from local kite competitions or fishing lines entangled in the bridge. Others are concerned that it may be a malicious act intended to harm cyclists.
The Marine Parkway Bridge spans the Rockaway Inlet, connecting Jacob Riis Park in Queens with Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, serving as a vital route for many cyclists. Although biking is strictly prohibited on the bridge and walking is required, due to narrow shared paths, most cyclists opt to ride directly to ensure safety.
According to Gothamist, 36-year-old Angel Montalvo was riding his motorcycle on the bridge on the evening of Sunday, July 20th, when he was cut on the neck and forehead by a thin line. Several netizens on the Reddit social platform shared similar experiences that same day. Another rider, Alex Brickman, reported seeing the line floating in the air like a fishing line and felt surprised as it brushed past him but continued on.
The New York City Police Department (NYPD) currently considers the incident as non-criminal but has received reports. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) stated that on July 21st, personnel inspected the Marine Parkway Bridge and found no thin lines, but they will increase patrols. MTA speculates that the incident may have been caused by “kite strings entangled in bridge structures.”
Jennifer Noble and her friend were cut by lines in early June and were taken to the hospital for treatment. Noble, who underwent surgery due to her injuries, has not fully recovered and is currently fundraising. Her friend, Robert Hillebrand, required emergency blood transfusions due to a severed windpipe.
Residents and cyclists generally hope that the government and relevant authorities will promptly investigate the cause of these incidents and enhance prevention measures to ensure safe passage.