Hero New York subway driver, 36, is killed trying to save passengers from fire that ripped through train as cops arrest suspect for arson

A New York City subway driver has been killed trying to save the lives of passengers from a deadly blaze on the train, set by an arsonist.

Garrett Goble, 36, was pronounced dead after being taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, according to New York Police.  He is the third MTA driver to have died within the past two days, after bus driver Oliver Cyrus, 61, and train conductor Peter Petrassi, 49, both died from coronavirus on Thursday. 

'As all of you know, this has already been a devastating week for New York City Transit,' said Sarah Feinberg, interim president of New York City Transit, during a press conference. 

'And this is another horrific moment for our family.' 

Goble began ushering passengers to safety before wandering into the smoke-filled tunnel. His body was later found lying on the tracks.

'As all of you know, this has already been a devastating week for New York City Transit,' Feinberg said. 'And this is another horrific moment for our family.'

The fire occurred as the train arrived at the 110th Street station in Harlem, close to Central Park, at about 3:15am. A transit worker reportedly spotted smoke in the second car of the train cars.  

The fire originated from a shopping cart in the train car that also reportedly contained accelerant.

Around the same time three other fires were reported in trashcans on platforms and above ground at 86th Street, 96th Street and 116th Street stations. Those stations are near the 110th Street station.

'We are investigating it as a criminal matter,' McGee said. 

The New York Daily News reported police have taken a suspect for the arson into custody. 

Arriving firemen to the scene were met with passengers rushing out of the train cars  and away from the smoke.

Nine other people were also hurt during the fire, Feinberg said.

Goble's Brooklyn neighbor Katherine Gray told the New York Daily News: 'All I can tell you is he was beautiful young man.'  

'I've known him all his life. He was a good son, an excellent father and a great husband.' 

Goble married Delilah Rodriguez only two years ago. 

MTA is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person who caused the fire. 

The family has launched a PayPal account to support Goble's family.