Woman Takes NYC Subway Train for Joy Ride in Queens

Subway Train Joy Ride in Astoria

• 🚨 Cops are searching for a woman who allegedly took an end train for a joy ride in Astoria, Queens.
• 💡 The incident occurred at 4:30 a.m., with the suspect taking the train one stop from Broadway station to 36th Avenue station before fleeing.
• 🤷‍♂️ Onlookers speculated the motive could be anything from avoiding the fare to seeking amusement, with one person noting, "just cuz she can, she did."

Security Concerns and Past Incidents

• 🔑 The MTA stated there was no impact on service and no one was on the train during the incident.
• ⚠️ This is not the first time a subway train has been taken for a joy ride, raising questions about the security of train crew cabs.
• 🔗 According to the Transport Workers Union, while cabs are supposed to be locked, a master key that works on every train is often stolen or bought on the black market.
• 🚆 Past incidents include two juveniles stealing keys in March, and two teens arrested in January for driving an R train over 30 mph, and another similar incident in September.

MTA's Security Upgrades

• 🔒 The MTA has been implementing locks on conductor cab doors and developing new technology to restrict access.
• 🗣️ The MTA CEO mentioned in April the need for biometrics and modern security systems, acknowledging that older trains require significant investment in the next capital program.
• ⏳ It is unclear when these new security technologies will be implemented.