Ghost Fleet: How NYC Lost Control of Its Tow Truck Industry

A years-long investigation into New York City’s unlicensed towing industry revealed for the first time the scope of the problem: the illegal fleet now outnumbers the licensed industry.

GHOST FLEET — WNYC / GOTHAMIST
THE BRIAN LEHRER SHOW · FEBRUARY 2026
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SPECIAL INVESTIGATION: HOW NEW YORK CITY LOST CONTROL OF THE TOW TRUCK INDUSTRY
WNYC / NYC NOW · FEBRUARY 11 2026
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STORIES IN THIS SERIES

NYC puts tow truck operators on notice following Gothamist investigation

Gothamist

March 3, 2026

New York City consumer protection officials are putting hundreds of tow truck companies on notice, warning they’ll swiftly revoke licenses from operators that rip off drivers.
Ghost fleet: How New York City lost control of the tow truck industry

Investigations, Gothamist

February 11, 2026

A Gothamist analysis of speeding and red light camera data reveals the number of unlicensed tow trucks in the city has increased from 54 in 2021 to at least 712 today. Meanwhile, the number of licensed tow trucks has fallen from 995 in 2021 to 764 today.
Bronx tow truck owner who ordered a fatal drive-by amid turf war faces life in prison

Gothamist

August 21, 2025

The operator of a Bronx auto body shop who swindled customers and insurance companies faces life in prison after pleading guilty to ordering a drive-by shooting targeting a rival tow truck company.

Ghost fleet: How New York City lost control of the tow truck industry

NYC puts tow truck operators on notice following Gothamist investigation

Ghost fleet: How New York City lost control of the tow truck industry

Bronx tow truck owner who ordered a fatal drive-by amid turf war faces life in prison