SEPTA Approves AI Gun Detection Pilot Program

ZeroEyes, creators of the A.I.-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) announced that the authority has selected ZeroEyes for a pilot program designed to reduce the likelihood of gun-related violence on train platforms.

SEPTA said it is the first major transit system to deploy ZeroEyes’ solution, which is used by the U.S. Department of Defense, public school districts and universities, Fortune 500 corporate campuses, and other organizations across more than 30 states. The SEPTA board approved the pilot during its November meeting. Implementation will begin in approximately two months.

Layered on top of SEPTA’s existing security cameras, ZeroEyes’ proprietary software will identify brandished guns and alert safety personnel and local law enforcement within three to five seconds. Former U.S. military and law enforcement specialists monitor every detection from the in-house ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC) to deliver accurate and actionable intelligence on gun-related incidents, including the gunman’s appearance, clothing, weapon, and real-time location.

ZeroEyes’ A.I. does not perform any facial recognition, nor receive, record, store, or share videos or images of any person.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety of our riders and employees,” said Pasquale T. Deon Sr., SEPTA Board president. “While serious crimes are rare on SEPTA, evaluating this technology demonstrates the Authority’s proactive approach to security.”

SEPTA has more than 30,000 cameras throughout the system. The pilot program will utilize cameras at stations along the Market-Frankford and Broad Street Lines.

“Our nation’s cities have been experiencing dramatic increases in violent gun-related crime, and we need more leaders like SEPTA who take proactive measures to protect the public,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO/co-founder of ZeroEyes. “Public transportation is a crucial lifeline in urban regions, and the millions of people who rely upon it have a right to feel safe. SEPTA’s progressive approach to the problem should set the industry norm; we hope to see other public transit providers follow suit in the near future.”