MBTA releases new footage of September escalator accident

The MBTA has released video of the escalator accident that sent people tumbling to the ground at Back Bay MBTA station back in September.

The video was released now because it was requested by The Boston Globe, according to T spokesman Joe Pesaturo.

In the newly released footage, the escalator can be seen descending rapidly. People are thrown off at the bottom, and fall on top of each other.

The incident happened around 6 p.m. on Sept. 26. At least nine people sustained what appeared to be minor injuries, and were sent to nearby hospitals.

The Bethay and Parson families, who were involved in the incident while visiting Boston from Louisiana, released a new statement saying they’re aware of the video’s release.

“They continue to recover and still face a long road following this incident. They respectfully request continued privacy at this time, with enormous gratitude to their friends, family and well-wishers as they try to heal and return to their normal lives,” the statement read. “They also want to reiterate their thanks to the City of Boston for their hospitality during their weekend stay. They enjoyed their time here but for this incident.”

The families are involved in a lawsuit against Kone, the MBTA’s escalator maintenance contractor, claiming the company was negligent, the Globe reported.

This isn’t the first time an MBTA escalator has suddenly reversed its direction. Since the 1990s, it’s been documented as having happened three other times, with a fourth incident described in a lawsuit, according to the Globe.

Escalator experts interviewed by the Globe said the incidents likely occurred due to brake failure.

Want to leave a comment?

Create an Account Or sign in to your account

To comment, please create a screen name in your profile

To comment, please verify your email address

Conversation

This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com