MTA Train Operator Beaten on Queens Subway Platform After Confronting Smoker

A 51-year-old MTA train operator was punched repeatedly in the face at a Forest Hills subway station Wednesday night. The suspect fled on an outbound train and remains at large.

MTA Worker Attacked on Queens Subway Platform After Asking Man to Stop Smoking

A 51-year-old on-duty MTA train operator was beaten on the southbound E train platform at the 71st Avenue subway station in Forest Hills around 10:00 p.m. Wednesday, after asking a man to stop smoking, NY Post Metro reports.

The suspect — described as wearing a white hoodie and matching sweatpants — punched the employee multiple times in the face before boarding an outbound train and fleeing the scene, according to police and Transport Workers Union Local 100 President John Chiarello.

The train operator suffered a fractured finger and a broken lip, Chiarello said. EMS transported him to New York-Presbyterian Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition, authorities confirmed.

The attacker remains at large, police said.

Chiarello issued a statement following the assault, criticizing the MTA for failing to take adequate measures to protect transit workers.

"These attacks are not a new problem, and we have been sounding the alarm, showing up to court hearings and standing by our members who have been assaulted on a regular basis for years," Chiarello said. "At what point do others who have the power to make change step in?"

The union president did not specify what additional safety measures he is calling on the MTA to implement.

Source: NY Post Metro