CHARLOTTE — A security guard employed by Professional Security Services was attacked on the train tracks at the Arrowood Light Rail Station on Tuesday morning.
Law enforcement officers took Tommy Curtis Martin into custody shortly before 8 a.m. in connection with the assault.
The Charlotte Area Transit System confirmed that the assault took place at the station located on England Street.
Transit officials stated that the security officer sustained injuries that were reported as not life-threatening.
According to court documentation, Martin faces multiple criminal charges stemming from the incident.
A magistrate’s order states Martin was charged with creating a public disturbance by shouting, screaming at, and fighting the guard.
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He also faces charges of robbery for allegedly stealing a woman’s mobile phone, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill or inflict serious injury for allegedly using a rock during the attack, and assault on a female for kicking a woman on the ground.
Martin is detained at the Mecklenburg County Jail without bond, and judicial records show he previously faced charges including resisting an officer and assault on a government official.
Emergency transmissions broadcast over police radio at approximately 7:30 a.m. captured the moment the security guard called for help. “On the train tracks! This man just pushed me! I’m bleeding!” the security officer reported over the radio.
A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department dispatcher subsequently called for immediate backup, stating over the radio, “Let me get a 10-18 out there. A security officer is down on the tracks.”
The incident has heightened safety concerns among local transit riders.
Courtney Owens, a resident who lives near the Arrowood station, noted that she has been using the light rail less frequently in recent months.
“It’s really disappointing to hear that there’s that kind of unfortunate violence. Especially so close to home,” Owens said.
Learning that the victim was a security guard further impacted her perception of safety, adding, “It makes me even a little bit more concerned.”
The assault follows efforts by transit officials to bolster security across the network after the death of Iryna Zarutska.
In June, total crime on the Blue Line decreased by approximately 70% compared to the same period in 2025.
Meanwhile, federal statistics indicate that overall light rail ridership declined by 10% compared to the previous year.