N.Y. MTA seeks to recover money made off transit imposter's film

Darius McCollum, who's been arrested 30 times for transit-related crimes, told AP that his uncontrollable obsession with buses and trains is because of an autism-spectrum disorder and he needs help.

Staff Writer・Editorial

Read Staff's Posts

March 22, 2016

N.Y. MTA seeks to recover money made off transit imposter's film — N.Y. MTA

1 min to read

NEW YORK CITY — The Metropolitan Transportation Authority said Monday that it will try to recoup any money transit imposter, Darius McCollum makes off a feature film in development about his life stealing buses and trains, reported The Associated Press.

McCollum, who's been arrested 30 times for transit-related crimes, told AP that his uncontrollable obsession with buses and trains is because of an autism-spectrum disorder and he needs help. He was most recently arrested in November, when he was accused of stealing a Greyhound bus from a terminal in New Jersey and driving it to Brooklyn.

The 50-year-old McCollum, who 's story has been in newspapers and magazines for decades, had the subway map memorized by age 8. A documentary about his life, "Off the Rails," will premiere at a film festival in Durham, N.C. in April and a feature film, tentatively titled "Train Man," was sold to a financer and is set to star Julia Roberts as McCollum's attorney, Sally Butler, according to the AP report.

For the full story, click here.

Topics:Greyhound N.Y. MTA Trailways transit security Paratransit Bus Management Motorcoach Rail Security and Safety

More Security and Safety

Security and Safety•January 22, 2026

Researchers Identify Top Risk Factors for Pedestrian-vehicle Crashes at Massachusetts Bus Stops

While their comprehensive analysis of bus stops focused on Massachusetts, the researchers are excited about the generalizability of the findings and application to other locations.

3 New Ways Fleet Software Pays: ROI opportunities for modern fleet managers

Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.

Technology•by Staff•January 16, 2026

CTA Innovation Studio Expands Pilot to Reduce Smoke, Odors

The new filters include substantially more activated carbon than traditional HVAC filters, which is especially helpful in providing a better transit riding experience for vulnerable populations, particularly children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses, according to the CTA.

Security and Safety•by Staff•January 16, 2026

Milwaukee Rolls Out New Measures to Enhance Bus Safety

MCTS officials said the new pilots are part of a broader commitment to improving the rider experience through proactive, visible safety strategies that balance enforcement with customer support.

Transit signal priority and public transit agencies.

New Mobility•by Alex Roman•January 16, 2026

How AI is Redefining Transit Operations and Signal Priority

In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.