On Tuesday March 13th, 2012 Irene Bernatzky
fell while on an escalator at the Lindenhurst train station, on Long Island New
York, USA. Her clothing was entangled in the treads
causing her to choke to her death.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority had
been hoping to replace this particular escalator for some time because it had
been causing problems, but failed to make the replacement due to not having the
funds after a budget cut in February of 2008. Although many of the passengers
say that the escalator is almost always out of service, it passed inspection in
February 2012 after a “minor repair.” A Long Island Rail Road spokesman, Sam
Zambuto said the escalator “is inspected monthly and is maintained in good
operating condition” and disputed any problems with the escalator.
Ms. Bernatzky was 88 years old, lived with
her son and daughter in-law was young at heart and enjoyed taking regular trips
to the city, many people find what happened to her absurd and hope this should
raise awareness to others.
