On Sept. 16 just before 8:30 a.m., a Metro-North train from New Canaan stopped about 100 yards before Track 110 after a passenger allegedly made a threatening statement and experienced an emotional crisis. About 60 commuters "self-evacuated" the stopped train, many exiting through emergency windows and walking to the platform. Authorities detained 33-year-old Hannah Jane Santero, who was taken to Bellevue Hospital and faces felony and misdemeanor charges; no weapon or injuries were reported.
N.Y.C. Commuters Flee Through Windows After Woman Allegedly Declares 'This Will Be Your Last Day on Earth'
Stock photo of subway train at Grand Central Station.Credit: Getty
A morning commuter train bound for Grand Central Terminal descended into panic Wednesday, Sept. 16, when a passenger allegedly threatened others aboard as the train approached Track 110.
Just before 8:30 a.m., the Metro-North train from New Canaan, Conn., came to an abrupt stop after a rider pulled the emergency cord about 100 yards from the platform, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) said. According to officials, a 33-year-old woman began experiencing an emotional crisis and was reported by a witness to have said,
"This will be your last day on earth."
When the train halted, roughly 60 passengers "self-evacuated the train," many climbing out through emergency windows and walking to the platform, local officials said. Passengers were not instructed to leave the cars, and MTA staff did not open the doors during the incident.
Response and Safety Measures
Metro-North disconnected the third rail and suspended service to the Lower Level of Grand Central while the Metro-North Police Department (MTAPD) responded. Officers escorted passengers who were on the tracks back to safety on the platform. Once all evacuated riders reached the platform, service was restored and the original train continued into the station with about 650 passengers still aboard.
Suspect Detained
Authorities identified the detained passenger as Hannah Jane Santero, 33, of Elmhurst, N.Y. MTAPD took her into custody and transported her to Bellevue Hospital for evaluation. She faces a felony charge of making a terroristic threat and a misdemeanor charge of making a threat of mass harm, per the MTA.
No weapon was recovered and no physical injuries were reported, though four passengers received stress evaluations. Officials urged anyone struggling with mental health or emotional distress to call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 support.
Eyewitness Account
Commuter Nigel Sirois, 22, who was on board for his daily trip from New Canaan, said he shouted for people to move toward the front of the train and worried a sudden rush could hurt elderly or vulnerable riders. Transit officials continue to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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