Hero fiancé suffers horrific burns shielding loved one from 'maniac' attacker on NYC subway

In a heart-wrenching act of bravery, 23-year-old Petrit Alijaj selflessly protected his fiancée from a vicious attack on the NYC subway yesterday, suffering severe burns in the process.

The Albanian native was left with burns covering 30% of his body after a deranged assailant, identified as 49-year-old Nile Taylor, hurled flaming liquid at him on the No. 1 train.

Alijaj recounted the terrifying ordeal from his hospital bed at New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Hospital, still in shock from the “random” attack. He, his fiancée, and cousin were en route to visit the Statue of Liberty when Taylor boarded the train at Varick Street station, brandishing a cup filled with flammable liquid.

As Taylor ignited the liquid and flung it at the trio, Alijaj instinctively turned his body to shield his loved ones, absorbing the brunt of the attack. Taylor fled the scene, leaving Alijaj to worry about potential further harm.

Initially unaware of the severity of his injuries, Alijaj only realized the extent of his burns upon arriving at the hospital, where he was treated for blisters on his neck, ears, chest, arms, and left hand. Doctors are still determining the depth of the burns and expect him to remain hospitalized for at least a week.

Alijaj’s courageous act has left a lasting impact, and his story serves as a testament to the power of love and selflessness in the face of unimaginable danger.