Transit Safety

A violent incident at a Calgary LRT station has renewed concerns about transit safety. Around 1:40 a.m. on Sunday, a woman waiting for her train was grabbed and pushed by a man. The attack, captured on video, has sparked widespread discussion about security on Calgary Transit.

Sage Dacquel, a frequent transit rider who commutes to SAIT, says she has become increasingly uneasy about safety conditions.

“Honestly, it depends on the time of day,” Dacquel said. “But lately, even during the daytime, it’s been feeling more unsafe. I even feel the need to carry pepper spray whenever I travel downtown on transit.”

While police have stated that the attack does not appear to be racially motivated, the victim and others affected have been offered support from the Calgary Police Service’s Diversity Resource Team.

SAIT student Marina Fries shared similar concerns, noting that her sense of safety depends on the time of day.

“For the most part, during the day it’s fine, but at night, it can feel a little sketchy,” Fries said.

Other students believe the city should strengthen security at LRT stations.

“I think more security should be stationed at entrances rather than just on the trains themselves,” one student suggested.

 Calgarians say they don’t feel overwhelmingly unsafe on transit, many agree that improvements are needed to enhance security and ensure all riders feel protected.