“Breaking into and moving subway cars is dangerous, illegal, and will not be tolerated. We thank the NYPD for capturing these perpetrators who not only put their own lives at risk but also riders and transit workers. Those hooligan games cannot happen, and that’s why we’ve stepped up security at key transit locations and are actively exploring new technologies to prevent access and control of the operator’s cab, including biometric verification.”
Additional information
Incident happened Jan. 25, 2025 on the R Line in Brooklyn.
NYC Transit is:
- Designing upgrades to the model board to incorporate an overrun alarm circuit if a lay-up train is moved without authorization, as well as reviewing circuit capacity to include audible siren and an enhanced lighted indicator for unexpected movement.
- Developing a procedure to mount portable fixed stops at the entering and leaving ends of lay-up areas. These devices would automatically trip the emergency brake of each car that passes over them.
- Working with car manufacturer to understand feasibility of incorporating biometric verification into future R211 cars.
Research and development underway to identify and implement technology options for authorizing personnel access to train controls.