Early today at approximately 3:14 a.m. a smoke and fire condition was reported inside a northbound 2 train as it was approaching the 110 St station, with the train crew eventually reporting heavy black smoke issuing. The NYPD is conducting an active investigation of the crime scene. The source and cause of the fire are still under investigation. The train operator was removed to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. The train’s conductor and an additional conductor who was on board assisted the passengers in exiting the train and the platform. FDNY removed additional customers from a northbound 3 train that was behind the incident train. FDNY treated customers for injuries.
The Crime Stoppers tip line to call with information for the rewards being offered by MTA, Crime Stoppers and the Police Foundation is 800-577-TIPS (800-577-8477).
There were significant service changes caused by the response to this incident; see the MYmta app or www.mta.info for the latest details on service.
MTA Chairman and CEO Patrick J. Foye, and TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano, issued the following statements today.
Statement from MTA Chairman and CEO Patrick J. Foye:
“It is with great sorrow that we share news of the tragic loss of one of our brave colleagues, a New York City Transit train operator who died in the line of duty this morning after a significant fire that occurred on board a train he was operating. Our colleague was a young man who had served the people of New York City at Transit for many years. The entire MTA family mourns his death alongside a grateful city. Our hearts break for his family, loved ones and all those who knew him. The NYPD is actively investigating the incident for criminality. In addition to $2,500 offered by Crime Stoppers and the Police Foundation, the MTA is offering up to $50,000 for information that leads to the arrest, indictment and conviction of the person(s) responsible for this terrible tragedy.”
Statement from TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano:
“This is a terrible tragedy for this young Train Operator, his family, and for the entire transit workforce. A young man serving the public during a national crisis was killed at just 36 years of age.
“Our Conductor acted heroically to move passengers to the platform out of danger, and deserves our deepest thanks and support for his bravery. This incident once again points out many life-threatening dangers that await transit workers across the city when they go to their jobs every day, 24 hours a day. This is a sad day for our entire City. We’re devastated.”
-via Press Release