A couple find their world has been turned upside down when they're taken hostage and held in different cities while their young daughter, who has severe asthma, is kidnapped by the same band of ruthless criminals and held for a large ransom. It seems that the criminals have a foolproof plan. Unable to contact the police, the criminals demand a massive ransom, but if the payment is not arranged in 24 hours, the girl will be killed.

New York Metropolitan Transit Authority train dispatcher Walter Garber's must use his vast knowledge of the subway system in a battle to outwit Ryder, the criminal mind that has hijacked the passengers of subway train, Pelham 1-2-3.