'Operator Error' Eyed In MBTA Crash That Injured 16

BOSTON, MA — The Mattapan Line trolley collision that sent 16 people to the hospital Friday appears to have been caused by "operator error," the MBTA said. MBTA Deputy GM Jeff Gonneville released a statement Saturday saying operator will be out of service while an investigation takes place.

Gonneville also said the trolleys are being examined to determined what repairs need to be made. The Mattapan Line will be running with four trolleys rather than the usual five. That will push the rush hour wait closer to 6 1/2 minutes rather than the usual 5.

An inbound trolley made struck the back of another near Cedar Grove, the MBTA said. Boston EMS said it evaluated 17 people at the scene, transporting 16 of them to the hospital. None of the injuries appeared to be serious.