In a harrowing and exclusive interview with Eyewitness News, Andy Valentine, the train operator who was stationed in the lead car of a derailed subway train in New York City, shared his firsthand account of the incident.

Valentine, responsible for flagging and providing lookout information to the supervisor driving the train, witnessed the signals turn red and immediately radioed the supervisor to alert him. However, the supervisor did not respond and continued moving the train forward, ignoring Valentine's pleas to stop.

Helpless and trapped in a car with no air, communication, or brakes, Valentine frantically attempted to communicate with the supervisor through various channels, desperately trying to halt the train's progress. Despite his efforts, the train failed to stop, and Valentine could only watch in horror as the collision with another train became inevitable.

Valentine admitted feeling a profound sense of helplessness, convinced that he was about to witness his own demise. The thunderous crash and the ensuing clouds of smoke left him struggling to breathe. However, he quickly regained his composure, reaching for his radio to alert the appropriate authorities and requesting urgent medical assistance for the injured passengers.

Following the devastating collision, Valentine remained onboard the train, refusing to leave until every single passenger had been safely evacuated. Only after ensuring the well-being of all passengers did he disembark.

Valentine, displaying remarkable selflessness and bravery, emphasized that he does not blame himself for the collision, but he does acknowledge his responsibility to the passengers aboard his train. Despite the chaos and injuries suffered by approximately two dozen individuals, no fatalities were reported, for which Valentine expressed gratitude.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by public transportation workers and the importance of their role in ensuring the safety of passengers. As authorities investigate the cause of the collision, Valentine's unwavering dedication to the well-being of those onboard serves as a testament to the heroism displayed by everyday individuals in the face of adversity.

The aftermath of the collision highlights the importance of thorough safety protocols and communication systems to prevent similar incidents in the future. The swift response from emergency personnel, including the FDNY, was crucial in attending to the injured passengers and ensuring their well-being.

While the investigation into the collision is ongoing, Andy Valentine's unwavering commitment to the safety and rescue of passengers aboard the derailed train stands as a shining example of bravery and fortitude in the face of a frightful situation.