MBTA Apologizes For 'Unsettling Experience' On Red Line Train
BOSTON (CBS) – The MBTA apologized for an "unsettling experience" for Red Line commuters after a train malfunctioned on Thursday.
Several commuters who believed there was a fire on a disabled train at Quincy Center broke through windows to escape, prompting MBTA officials to say there was no fire and "no reason for this to happen."
On Friday, the MBTA issued another statement, backing off those comments.
"It was never the MBTA's intention to question what the customers were feeling or experiencing yesterday morning at Quincy Center," the MBTA said. "We greatly appreciate the loyalty of our customers and we strive to do everything possible to deliver the safe and reliable service they deserve."
According to the statement, the MBTA will review "every aspect" of the incident to determine how the response can be improved.
The train was disabled by a failure in the train's propulsion system, which resulted in a burst of smoke outside the train.
The MBTA said the driver was in the process of opening the door when commuters took action and forced through windows.
Gov. Charlie Baker's spokesman, Tim Buckley, said the governor is "disappointed" in the MBTA's statements regarding the Quincy Center incident.
"While he is relieved that no one was hurt, he and Secretary Pollack urged the MBTA to take the gravity of the passengers' frightening experiences more seriously," Buckley said.