MBTA Launches New Safety PSA After Fatal Escalator Incident: Report

SOMERVILLE, MA — The MBTA is launching a new public safety campaign after a man died following a tragic escalator incident at Davis Station in Somerville, according to a report from WCVB NewsCenter 5.

The campaign is focused on reminding riders that red emergency stop buttons are located at the top and bottom of MBTA escalators and can be used by anyone during an emergency.

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Steven McCluskey, 40, fell at the bottom of an escalator at Davis Station shortly before 5 a.m. on Feb. 27. His clothing became caught in the machinery while the escalator continued moving. Surveillance video showed several riders passing by before an MBTA worker eventually stopped the escalator.

McCluskey, a South Boston father of two, was taken to the hospital in critical condition and later died from his injuries. His death has prompted renewed attention to escalator safety and emergency response across the transit system.

The new PSA will air in MBTA stations and is designed to show riders exactly where emergency stop buttons are located and how to use them to stop an escalator if someone is in distress. MBTA Chief Safety Officer Tim Lesniak said officials want the public to understand that anyone can activate the buttons in an emergency. The campaign comes in addition to an existing MBTA safety video that warns riders about clothing becoming caught in escalator steps.

The MBTA said the goal is to increase awareness and encourage passengers to act quickly if they see someone who may need help.

Read more at WCVB NewsCenter 5.

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