Operator of Runaway Train Reportedly Fired

The operator of a train that left Braintree unmanned last week has reportedly been fired.

Sources tell Lauren Leamanczyk of WBZ that termination papers for David Vasquez have been signed and were placed in the mail Wednesday.

Yesterday, Vasquez received an unpaid 30-day suspension with a recommendation for termination during a disciplinary hearing.

The hearing followed Monday’s fact-finding hearing, which Vasquez did not attend. According to recent reports, Vasquez was to not attend due to his recent issues with high stress.

Last Thursday morning, a Red Line train left Braintree, rushing through the Quincy stations before MBTA workers were able to stop the train just past North Quincy by shutting off the third rail.

The incident reportedly happened after Vasquez left the train to put the train into bypass mode. He has denied a claim that he wrapped a cord around the throttle and did not set the break.

Photo Credit: WHDH, 7-News