Federal Investigation Launched into Atlanta’s Transit Safety
The Trump administration has initiated a federal investigation into Atlanta’s transit system in light of two recent stabbings, including the tragic death of a 66-year-old woman on a MARTA train.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) will audit the Atlanta Metropolitan Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), emphasizing concerns over worker and passenger safety due to a spike in violent incidents. “I want answers from Atlanta. The rates of assaults, robberies, and rapes on MARTA trains are more than three times the national average,” Duffy expressed.
This investigation follows the fatal stabbing of great-grandmother Margaret Swan, who lost her life in an unprovoked attack by a homeless individual on an Atlanta train.
Duffy commented, “Margaret’s family must take responsibility. No one should fear for their safety on public transport.”
A letter sent to MARTA Interim CEO Jonathan Hunt indicated that the audit will assess how effectively the agency is carrying out safety initiatives, particularly regarding assaults on transit workers and overall passenger protection.
MARTA reportedly accounted for one of just two fatal assaults on transit workers across the nation in fiscal year 2025. Moreover, incidents threatening personal safety have been nearly double the national average since the start of fiscal year 2024.
This federal review will also evaluate MARTA’s strategies for diminishing crime and fare evasion while scrutinizing the expenditure of federal and other funds earmarked for enhancing safety. Duffy mentioned that MARTA is obligated to present safety plans, assault reports, training documentation, and additional requested materials within 15 days.
The investigation was prompted by two stabbings occurring on MARTA property, including the deadly attack on Swan and another stabbing just days before.
The suspect, 25-year-old John Elijah Matthews from Decatur, Georgia, faces federal charges for assault with a dangerous weapon with the intent to cause death on public transportation, as well as a local felony murder charge, according to Fulton County records.
If Matthews is convicted, Assistant Attorney General Todd Blanche will determine whether the death penalty will be sought, according to prosecutors.
The incident unfolded around 11:25 a.m. on May 30 as Swan was riding a northbound MARTA train. An affidavit details how Matthews entered the train moments before the attack, wearing an orange shirt and glasses.
Surveillance footage captured Matthews approaching Swan, who was sitting alone, and subsequently, he allegedly attacked her, slashing her throat before stabbing her multiple times as she attempted to defend herself. Other passengers fled and called for help, with at least one witness confirming there had been no interaction prior to the assault.
Following the attack, Matthews reportedly threw Swan to the floor and remained nearby until the train arrived at Oakland City Station minutes later.
When authorities arrived at the scene, Matthews was quickly apprehended with a bloody knife and blood-stained clothing. Based on the affidavit, he indicated he currently had no fixed address or phone number.
Despite first responders’ efforts to save her, Swan was declared dead at the scene shortly thereafter.
