What to know
- A public transport worker was setting up a work zone for his team when he was attacked by ten teenagers at SEPTA’s 15th Street Station in Center City.
- The attack prompted Brown to resign SEPTA police chief Thomas Nestel, saying he cannot keep workers or passengers safe.
- During a news conference, Nestel made it clear that he was not resigning, but acknowledged that the police needed more help.
The surveillance video shows a crowd of teenagers attacking a SEPTA worker, prompting the Transit Workers Union to ask for the resignation of the SEPTA Chief of Police, citing safety concerns.
The incident occurred around 11:30 pm on Monday at SEPTA’s 15th Street station in the city center. A traffic worker was setting up a work zone for his team when he was attacked by ten teenagers.
Surveillance video shows a group of teenagers attacking a SEPTA worker Monday night at 15th Street Station in Center City.
“There were no words exchanged,” said TWU Local 234 president Willie Brown. “There was no reason. They just attacked him and sometimes it’s almost like they get points or have a game where they just jump on someone. ”
The worker is recovering. But the attack prompted Brown to resign SEPTA police chief Thomas Nestel, saying he cannot keep workers or passengers safe.
“We lost control of the subway system,” said Brown. “I think it is the leadership of the police department. I don’t think he trusts his own police force. “
During a news conference on Thursday, Nestel condemned the attack, calling it “outrageous behavior”. He also made it clear that he will not resign. With the rise in crime in the SEPTA system this year, Nestel also acknowledged that his officers need help.
“We are certainly taking steps to try to resolve this,” said Nestel. “Last month, there were discussions about hiring a security guard company to place guards on some platforms to maintain visibility and to serve as observation posts and reports.”
In addition to potentially adding 60 unarmed guards, Nestel defended a police policy of identifying suspects, but awaiting arrest until a more complete case is made.
“It is not taking and letting go. It is a delayed detention process, ”said Nestel. “You know, I don’t want the audience to think we’re taking people, giving them a hug and saying, ‘Hey, you know, go your way.’
Frequent SEPTA passengers, like Darla Cobb, from southwestern Philadelphia, want solutions.
“It’s terrible down here. It’s dangerous down here, ”said Cobb. “Unbelievable and I’m scared for my life, because it could be me.”
No arrests were made in the attack. The authorities continue to investigate.