Authorities say Neely was shouting and pacing back and forth on the F train in Manhattan when he was restrained by at least three people, including a Marine veteran who put him in a chokehold.
Neely, who was described as homeless and a regular street performer in Times Square, died as a result of the chokehold that was caught on video, according to the medical examiner's office.
Protesters at the subway station demanded charges to be brought against the former Marine for Neely’s death.
The MTA said the rally led to service disruptions on Saturday. The protest also spilled onto the street as some stood in the middle of the road. Police warned anyone blocking traffic that they would be arrested.
No charges have been filed in the case so far.