Smashed Subway Windows Cost MTA $300K And Counting

QUEENS, NY — The cash-strapped MTA is facing a repair bill of $300,000 — and counting — as authorities scramble to stop a months-long vandalism spree that has resulted in hundreds of smashed subway windows.

The transit authority is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the "sociopath" responsible for the damage, which has largely affected the 7 line, MTA Chairman and CEO Pat Foye said in a news conference Monday.

The NYPD is offering an additional $2,500 for tips through its CrimeStoppers program.

From May 8 to Aug. 18, the MTA reported more than 70 incidents of smashed windows. Fifty-three of those incidents happened in Manhattan, while 14 were in Queens.

But the vandal struck as recently as Sunday night, when four windows were broken on a 7 train, according to MTA Chief Safety Officer Pat Warren.

At least 25 windows were smashed on three 7 trains since Friday evening, officials said in a news release.

"It continues to be an infuriating problem for the MTA and for everyone in New York City," Warren said.

Authorities declined to say whether they suspected one person or multiple people are responsible for the window-breaking spree. Police have released video of a man spotted smashing a train window with a hammer earlier this month.

"That's a great lead and that's exactly what we're looking for," said NYPD Inspector Jason Savino, who is leading the investigation. "Put on your little detective shields, and if you see something, say something."

WANTED for CRIMINAL MISCHIEF: Between May 8th and August 3rd there has been 64 incidents where glass was broken on train cars on the 2,3,7 subway lines in Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. If you have information on the individual pictured call/DM @NYPDTips at 800-577-TIPS. pic.twitter.com/nL9EQU9FvJ
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) August 5, 2020

Subway windows are made from a special type of glass designed to keep riders safe by not shattering.

Every time a window is broken, the MTA takes that train out of service to make repairs. That creates delays for riders.

So many windows have been smashed that the agency has depleted its stockpile of replacement glass and is instead turning to glass vendors to produce new windows.

If the vendors are unable to keep up with the pace of the vandalism, MTA officials said riders could see service cuts.

Ok now I’m really concerned for the safety of the #TrainCrews on the 7 Line @NYCTSubway @NYPDTransit @progressiveact enough is enough its time to catch this guy before he #Hurts somebody @ClaytonGuse @mihirzaveri @nicolegelinas @dahvnyc @ABC7NYNewsDesk pic.twitter.com/sfDpQfqHrT