UPDATE: The MTA is urgently investigating a shocking incident where several subway cars detached from a train in the Bronx on Sunday evening. The detachment occurred around 5:30 p.m. near the 149th Street-Grand Concourse station, leaving commuters in chaos as service was halted.
Officials confirmed that three cars separated from a 10-car No. 4 subway train, prompting immediate action from emergency services and MTA personnel. New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow labeled the event as “an unusual incident,” assuring the public that the train’s brakes functioned properly, bringing both sections to a safe stop.
“The system itself failed as it should have in a safe position. The train brakes when applied, brought the train, both sections of the train to a stop safely,”
said Crichlow during a press briefing.
In response, the MTA announced it will conduct thorough inspections of all R142 model subway cars to determine if there is a defect contributing to this alarming occurrence. Eyewitness News obtained photos showing the detached cars, which had cables dangling, and police were quickly dispatched to the scene to manage the situation as commuters were left bewildered.
While no injuries have been reported, the incident caused significant delays and detours for riders. One concerned mother, Bridget Berkley, expressed her distress as she waited for her son who was on the train. “It’s panicky, it’s very panicky. I’ve been standing here stressed and worried for my son and waiting and just praying for his return,” she told reporters.
As a precaution, a rescue train was deployed to assist passengers in transferring safely from the disabled train to the platform. The MTA has since restored service at the station, but the investigation remains ongoing.
This incident raises serious questions about subway safety and the reliability of the MTA’s equipment. Commuters are urged to remain alert as updates continue to unfold.
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