Brooklyn Subway Shooting Prompts Transit Police To Increase Officers On MBTA
BOSTON (CBS) – Police are increasing the number of uniformed officers on the MBTA as a precaution following a subway shooting in New York City Tuesday.
In Massachusetts, MBTA Transit Police said they have been monitoring the developments and are engaged with federal, state and local law enforcement partners.
"At this time, there is no evidence, credible or otherwise, to suggest the MBTA system is a potential target," Transit Police said in a statement.
In addition to increasing the number of uniformed officers on patrol, they're also deploying additional explosive detection K-9 teams to do protective sweeps. Other measures are being taken that will not be visible to the public, Transit Police said.
Boston Police said there is currently no threat to the city, but added they are also increasing patrols around the MBTA. Massachusetts State Police also said they will continue to monitor intelligence following the shooting, but there is "no known threat or nexus to Massachusetts."
"We continue to monitor intelligence related to the subway shooting in New York City in coordination with our federal and local law enforcement partners," State Police Colonel Christopher Mason said. "While the suspect's identity and motive remain unknown at this time, currently available information does not indicate any threat to Massachusetts."
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said she spoke briefly with New York City Mayor Eric Adams after the shooting.
"Our thoughts and prayers and every bit of well wishes are with the City of New York with the experience they had on the MTA earlier today," Wu said, adding "We are following very closely and wishing them every bit of strength right now."
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said riders should feel comfortable on the MBTA, but will see more of a police presence on Tuesday.
"With respect to the subway system and public transportation systems generally here in Massachusetts, the state police, federal government, local law enforcement and transit police have been talking all morning," Baker said. "There will be a much more significant presence throughout the rest of the day. But we are not aware of anything that involves Massachusetts specifically."
