Overview
- The attack unfolded after the Knicks’ June 11 comeback and championship celebration when a crowd outside Madison Square Garden surrounded a taxi, smashed its windshield, jumped on the vehicle and dragged out driver Noureddine Bitat.
- A widely shared video of the scene drove swift public attention and outrage, showing people trying to flip or set the cab on fire and documenting Bitat’s injuries and trauma.
- The National Taxi Workers Alliance launched a GoFundMe that gained momentum after promotion by influencer Zachery Dereniowski and rapper French Montana, with French presenting a $75,000 check to Bitat to cover living expenses.
- Bitat, a 59-year-old immigrant, reported back pain and scratches and said he is too afraid to resume driving, while at least one arrest has been reported but law enforcement has released few public details about charges or further prosecutions.
- The episode highlights risks faced by taxi and gig workers during large, spontaneous crowds and shows how viral social media and celebrity influence can quickly convert public attention into direct financial support.