On November 29, 2021 at approximately 9AM Transit Police officers assigned to the South District received a radio call to respond to the MBTA's Downtown Crossing Red Line platform for a report of an armed assault. Upon arrival officers located the victim, a 28 year old male, who informed the officers of the following: The victim boarded a Red Line train at Ashmont MBTA station and took a seat. At some point during the victim's travel another male, later identified as Rafael Perez-Medina, 33, of Boston began insulting the victim about the victim's COVID mask. Perez-Medina was making statements such as "You look like a duck " with that mask on. The two briefly argued about the mask when Perez-Medina now armed with a knife (blade fully displayed) stated to the victim "I'm in the Army I'll kill you ".
The victim fearful for his safety immediately exited the train and contacted the TPD. The victim furnished a detailed description of Perez-Medina and multiple TPD officers conducted an area search locating Perez-Medina at Temple Place. Perez-Medina was then positively identified by the victim as the individual who threatened him with a knife. Perez-Medina was placed into custody for Assault by means of a Dangerous Weapon and transported to TPD HQ for the arrest booking process.
media inquiries should be directed to Superintendent Richard Sullivan at rsullivan@mbta.com the events listed above are allegations; All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt
