Teen arrested for assault at Boston MBTA station

Juvenile accused of kicking man into moving train at Back Bay station

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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MBTA Transit police have arrested a 14-year-old male juvenile and charged him with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon after an incident at the Back Bay station on February 18, 2026. The juvenile allegedly kicked a 27-year-old man, causing him to fall backwards into a moving train. The victim suffered a laceration to his head but is expected to be okay.

Why it matters

Assaults on public transit are concerning for rider safety and can undermine confidence in the transportation system. This incident highlights the need for increased security and youth intervention programs to prevent such violent acts on MBTA platforms.

The details

According to police, the 14-year-old juvenile and a group of other teens approached the 27-year-old victim and attempted to take his Charlie Card transit pass. When the victim resisted, the juvenile kicked him, causing the victim to fall backwards into the side of a departing train. The victim suffered a head laceration but was able to be treated at a local hospital.

  • The incident occurred on February 18, 2026 at the Back Bay MBTA station.
  • The 14-year-old juvenile was arrested by MBTA Transit Police on February 19, 2026.

The players

MBTA Transit Police

The law enforcement agency responsible for policing the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's public transit system.

14-year-old male juvenile

The suspect arrested and charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon for kicking the victim into the moving train.

27-year-old victim

The man who was assaulted and pushed into the side of a moving train, suffering a head laceration.

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What they’re saying

“The victim was kicked during the assault & struck the side of a departing subway train. The juvenile will face ABDW charges. The investigation is ongoing.”

— MBTA Transit Police (Twitter)

“The man that got attacked said they approached him and were trying to take his transit card. He said he was in a tussle with them but trying to get away.”

— Local nurse (Boston 25 News)

“They came back to taunt the guy, but police officers told them to scram. I don't want it to happen to anyone else.”

— Local nurse (Boston 25 News)

What’s next

The 14-year-old juvenile will face charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. The investigation by MBTA Transit Police is ongoing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for improved security and youth intervention programs on public transit systems to prevent violent assaults and ensure the safety of all riders. Authorities must work to address the root causes driving such criminal behavior among young people.