A Brooklyn taxi driver was left partially paralyzed after being shot in the neck by a passenger during an attempted carjacking early on July 11, according to police and family members. Danish Sarwar, 21, who had immigrated from Pakistan to support his family, was driving a recently purchased 2026 Toyota RAV4 when the incident occurred in Prospect Lefferts Gardens.

According to authorities, Sarwar picked up the passenger in front of a daycare on Parkside Avenue near Bedford Avenue at approximately 4:15 a.m. The suspect, described as wearing a hoodie and a COVID mask, allegedly drew a firearm from the backseat and demanded money and valuables. Sarwar complied, handing over about $500 and his iPhone 17 Pro, but the suspect then demanded the vehicle.

Family members said Sarwar attempted to retrieve the car keys before the assailant fired a gunshot, striking him in the neck. Despite exiting the vehicle to unlock it, Sarwar was shot before handing over the keys. The suspect fled the scene and remains at large.

Sarwar was rushed to Kings County Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and remained unconscious in critical condition for more than a week. He regained consciousness on a Wednesday following the shooting but has since been unable to move his left arm or fingers. Doctors have implanted a microphone in his throat to assist his ability to communicate. He also faces difficulties with swallowing and heart function, attributed to spinal cord injuries sustained in the attack.

Hamza Sarwar, Danish’s brother, described him as a hardworking individual who supported their family in Pakistan, where their parents and two sisters live. “My brother worked seven days a week,” Hamza said, emphasizing the family's reliance on him and the hardship they have endured since the shooting. Danish, who has lived in the United States for about three years, is currently recuperating at his home in Sheepshead Bay but will require a long recovery period.

The New York Police Department released images of the suspect on July 18 and have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers. So far, no arrests have been made.

The New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission confirmed that Sarwar is listed as an active driver but noted that the Toyota RAV4 did not have TLC plates at the time of the incident. The commission condemned the violence against the driver. “The details of this incident are still under investigation, but any violence against TLC drivers is intolerable and heartbreaking,” said Taxi & Limousine Commissioner Midori Valdivia. “Our city’s drivers are hardworking people who deserve respect and dignity.”

Authorities continue to investigate the case as the community calls for justice for Sarwar and increased safety measures for drivers.