Subway Surfing Across NYC Escalates as Teens Use Stolen MTA Keys to Access Trains

By Y.M. Lowy

Subway surfing is continuing to spread across New York City, and the problem goes far beyond teens simply climbing onto the tops of trains.

Many subway surfers are now getting access to locked train areas using stolen MTA conductor keys, allowing them to open rear train doors, enter restricted train cabins, and even access tunnel areas that are supposed to stay secured.

Some of the keys are being stolen directly from MTA workers, while others are being sold online. Investigators have also found teens carrying MTA radios and safety vests while trespassing throughout the subway system.

The issue has become a major concern following several recent incidents, including the death of a 14-year-old boy Friday evening while subway surfing on top of a J train crossing the Williamsburg Bridge, with another teen critically injured in the same incident.

Just days ago, police stopped several more teens riding outside subway trains in Brooklyn and Manhattan, including one teenager who was carrying MTA train keys.

Social media continues fueling the dangerous trend, with videos of subway surfing spreading quickly online and encouraging more teenagers to copy the behavior for attention and views.

The NYPD says subway surfing incidents have led to multiple deaths and injuries across the city over the past two years. In response, police have expanded enforcement efforts using drones, transit teams, and additional patrols along elevated train lines, especially during after-school hours.