Transit workers demand MTA safety changes after conductor is stabbed

A platoon leader who was stabbed multiple times earlier this month is recovering after being placed in a medically induced coma.

The incident has prompted the Transit Workers Union to call for action and say, “Enough is enough.”

Dozens of union members rallied this week to demand stricter safety measures from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to protect workers.

Police said the conductor, 60-year-old Myran Pollack, was stabbed by a passenger at the Crown Heights Utica Avenue station after Pollack asked him to get off the train.

The TWU accused the MTA of violating workers’ rights and is calling for changes such as requiring employees to clear trains in pairs and ensuring that MTA police are present when workers evacuate trains.

When the incident occurred, Pollack was clearing the train at the end of the route.

NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow released the following statement:

“Prior to his heinous attack on a train operator, Jonathan Davalos had attacked another subway employee and a passenger on separate days. This recidivist behavior is why the Albany MTA has fought for tougher penalties for crimes on public transportation and why we push for the most aggressive law enforcement possible when employees, customers and police officers are attacked. We are pleased that TWU Local 100 is joining this effort and that they are supporting the NYPD and District Attorneys in ensuring that the greatest possible consequences are meted out.”

A New York University study found that 89% of public transit workers reported experiencing harassment or violence between 2020 and 2023.

Police said the suspect in the Pollack case has been arrested five times, including two for assault.