Man Poses as MTA Worker, Steals Bus from Brooklyn Depot

Bus Depot Security Breach

• 💡 A man, allegedly wearing an MTA shirt, gained access to the Ulmer Park Bus Depot in Brooklyn.
• ⚠️ Despite security measures and open bays, he was able to board a running city bus and drive it away.
• 📌 The MTA stated the suspect was fascinated by transit and was not an employee.

Attempted Intervention and Crash

• 🎯 An MTA worker, who was on board the bus, reportedly tried to stop the suspect.
• 💥 The suspect drove the bus around a corner, crashing into a car and ending up on the curb.
• ⚠️ The incident, which occurred just after midnight, could have been much worse, potentially endangering lives.

Suspect Apprehended and Charges

• 🔍 The suspect, identified as Jose Santiago, 32, was promptly arrested following the incident.
• ⚖️ He faces multiple charges, including grand larceny and reckless endangerment.

MTA Response and Security Concerns

• 💬 The MTA is conducting an internal review, stating the bus should not have been accessible to a non-employee.
• 🗣️ Witnesses and reporters highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of security at the depot and the need for increased measures to protect drivers and the public.
• 🚨 This incident follows other instances where buses and subways have been taken for unauthorized rides.