Improper Procedure Caused Runaway Train

Braintree, MA - An operator who did not follow procedure is being cited as the reason why a Red Line train left Braintree unmanned Thursday morning.

A source tells WHDH that the operator, David Felix Vasquez, the operator of the train, tied a cord around the throttle and did not secure the brake on the train when he exited to fix a signal issue.

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While outside, the train left the station with no operator, passing through Quincy before MBTA employees were able to stop the train just past North Quincy by depowering the third rail.

State Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack said the primary focus of the investigation is operator error.

No passengers were injured. The operator was treated at a hospital for a minor injury.

Photo Credit: WHDH, 7-News