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NYPD: Man brutally attacked in back of cab dies in Coney Island

Police say two men are wanted for breaking into a livery taxi, robbing 53-year-old Michael Shelonchik and taking off.

Julia Joseph

Jan 23, 2025, 6:42 PM

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Taxi drivers are demanding the city changes its laws after a brutal robbery in the back of a cab.

The incident happened on Tuesday in Coney Island.

Police say two men are wanted for breaking into a livery taxi, robbing 53-year-old Michael Shelonchik and taking off.

Moments after he was punched in the face and head, police say he suffered a medical emergency and died.

On Thursday, representatives of the New York State Federation of Drivers called for action.

They want the current law reversed, which would allow drivers to lock the passenger's door without their consent.

"Drivers should be allowed to lock the vehicle once the passenger has entered and is secured in the vehicle," argued Fernando Mateo.

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