Photo: JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / Getty Images
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has attributed a series of subway disruptions in the Bronx last month to a single vandal. The alleged perpetrator, 55-year-old Efrain Velez, reportedly caused chaos by stealing copper wires from the 149th Street-Grand Concourse station, leading to over 700 train delays.
On three separate days in early October, Velez's actions disrupted the 2 and 5 train services during the evening rush hour, affecting tens of thousands of commuters. According to NY1, Velez was arrested on October 14 and charged with criminal mischief and trespassing. The MTA credits their extensive camera system for aiding in his identification.
The MTA reported that Velez's actions were a primary factor in the decline of October's on-time performance metrics. Gothamist noted that the MTA experienced 77 major incidents last month, the highest number for any October since 2016. Despite these challenges, MTA officials maintain that the subway system's reliability has improved since the COVID-19 pandemic, with 85% of weekday trains running on time.
Velez's arrest highlights ongoing security issues within the subway system. The MTA has responded by increasing security measures, including additional fencing to deter trespassers. As the legal proceedings continue, the MTA and law enforcement remain vigilant in preventing future disruptions.
Photo Credit: Getty Images