MTA New York City Transit officials joined leaders of TWU Local 100 today for the unveiling of a memorial mural and plaque at the Flatbush Avenue-Brooklyn College subway station that honors the life and legacy of former Train Operator Garrett Goble.
Goble, a Brooklyn native, six-year Transit veteran and father of two, was tragically killed while on duty last March. Crafted by the Brooklyn artist BK Foxx using acrylic paint and spray, the 8-feet by 5-feet seven-inch portrait of a smiling Goble will serve as a permanent addition to what was Goble’s home station. His wife, Delilah, and mother, Vicki, were also on hand for the unveiling and offered remarks.
“Nothing can reverse this unthinkable tragedy or bring back a hero whom welost too soon,” said MTA Chairman Patrick Foye. “But we hope to provide a space with this memorial where New Yorkers can come and pay their respects to a true NYC hero, and remember and reflect on Mr. Goble’s life, his dedication and sacrifice.”
“Today’s unveiling brings both continuing sorrow, but also great joy,” said New York City Transit Interim President Sarah Feinberg. “Nothing will ever bring true solace to Garrett’s family, friends, colleagues and loved ones, but this beautiful mural is an important and lasting tribute to his service to New York, his colleagues, and the riders whose lives he saved.”
“Garrett grew up coming to this station and I can think of no tribute more befitting of his legacy than this mural,” said Delilah Goble, Garrett’s wife. “The pain of losing him will never fully go away, but I take comfort in knowing that the thousands of New Yorkers who come through this station each and every day will be greeted by his smiling face. This is a beautiful memorial. Thank you to Sarah and everyone at New York City Transit for helping make this happen.”
“This is a wonderful tribute to Garrett. Thousands of people will see this mural every day, ensuring that his legacy lives on. His legacy is one of bravery, heroism, selflessness, and service. Garrett made sure his riders escaped to safety. He put his riders first. He saved lives that morning. Think about that. There are people walking this Earth today because of Garrett Goble,” said Tony Utano, President of Transport Workers Union Local 100. “TWU Local 100 will never forget what Garrett did. We honor him today – and we honor him every day that we fight to make the transit system safer for workers and riders. We have gained ground. We have made progress. But the struggle continues. TWU Local 100 will fight on because no one should have to worry about their safety in our stations, on our trains and on our buses. That is our commitment. We will fight on with Garrett in mind, and in our hearts. And we will always be there for his family. Always.”
Goble was operating a northbound train at around 03:00 a.m. on March 27, 2021, when an arsonist set fire to a shopping cart, engulfing the train in flames near the 110th Street station. More than a dozen customers were also injured in the blaze. In addition to his wife Delilah, Goble is survived by two children and his mother Vicki.