The MBTA Board of Directors opened their meeting today by offering condolences to the family of Robinson Lalin, who was killed in an accident along the Red Line on April 10.
Lalin’s family and others have publicly criticized the transit agency for lack of communication about how the accident happened. Ten days after Lalin was dragged to his death when his arm became stuck in the subway doors, his nephew told Greater Boston he still had not “heard a word” from the MBTA.
General Manager Stephen Poftak attempted to make amends as he opened the meeting Thursday. But he noted there was not much he could say before the National Transportation Safety Board concludes its investigation.
“There are several investigations ongoing, which precludes me from providing much additional comment beyond what has already come out in public,” he said.
Poftak did say MBTA workers performed a thorough inspection of the vehicle type that was involved, but he could offer no information about the results of that inspection.
“As you know, from the disclosure by the NTSB, he was in the process of attempting to exit the train when the train was underway and lost his life in what is truly a tragic accident,” Poftak said.
Joining Poftak in offering condolences was MBTA Board Chair Betsy Taylor.
"I am confident that all board members join me in expressing deep, personal regret that this gentleman died," she said.
