This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Tapes Show Blue Line Train Ran Red Signal Before Hitting Cop Car
Investigation of Wednesday's Metro Blue Line versus Long Beach PD patrol car crash has netted videotape footage showing the train running a red light, according to the LA Times.
"Two tapes indicate that the southbound train rolled through the red signal about 1 p.m. and collided with the patrol car in the intersection of Long Beach Boulevard and 16th Street, Long Beach police said Friday." The images were captured "by outward facing cameras mounted on the southbound train and a northbound Blue Line train that had stopped at the light and was not involved in the accident."
At the time of the accident the patrol vehicle and pedestrians had a green signal to go; an investigation by MTA--who have not commented on the tapes--will determine if the train operator was somehow unable to see the red signal, and if the signals were functioning appropriately. The force of the train caused the patrol vehicle to be pushed over 100 feet. The officer, a 4-year LBPD veteran, remains hospitalized for his non-life threatening injuries. Passengers on board the Blue Line train were treated for minor injuries as well.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
