The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), in collaboration with the Chicago Police Department, is currently investigating an incident involving an individual who allegedly drove a CTA bus without permission. The suspect, who was observed wearing what appeared to be a Cta Uniform, initiated the unauthorized operation on Thursday, September 9th, from the 103rd street garage.
According to reports, the individual successfully drove a bus out of the garage. Later that same evening, a CTA employee witnessed the bus returning and making contact with another bus. As the employee went to notify a supervisor about the incident, the suspect reportedly fled the premises.
Security camera footage from the bus itself revealed that the person operating the vehicle, while not exhibiting expert driving skills, demonstrated sufficient familiarity with CTA protocols to log in and start the bus. The video also captured the individual driving through a door not visible from the street and subsequently leaving the garage on foot through the same concealed area.
Authorities believe the suspect has connections to a CTA bus operator and is suspected of a prior uniform theft. Last month, a CTA uniform shirt was reported stolen from an employee, potentially linked to this individual.
“The CTA and the Chicago Police Department are in close cooperation to identify and swiftly apprehend this individual,” stated CTA President Richard L. Rodriguez. “It is clear that the security measures intended to protect our garages were circumvented, which is unacceptable. Given that this person was wearing a CTA uniform and displayed some familiarity with CTA procedures, we are immediately enhancing our check-in protocols.”
In response to this security breach, the CTA is implementing immediate changes. Bus operators at every garage are now mandated to present their driver’s license to the garage clerk upon reporting for duty. Furthermore, all employees are required to visibly display their CTA identification at all times, with disciplinary actions in place for non-compliance. To bolster overnight security, all garage doors will now remain closed and locked, except for those necessary for bus entry and exit.
Looking ahead, the CTA is actively evaluating long-term security solutions, including enhanced perimeter security for garages. The agency is also in the initial phases of rolling out a biometric time and attendance system. This system will require employees to use biometric identification to swipe in and out when entering and exiting garages, adding another layer of security and accountability to prevent future incidents involving unauthorized use of cta uniform and equipment.
