Driver in MBTA crash already set to receive 'T' award

BOSTON (WHDH) -- The investigation is underway into what led two Green Line trolleys to collide. A driver who is already up for an award for his impeccable record was at the controls of one of the trains when the crash occurred.

The noon-time crash involved three members of the Carmen’s Union. In the train that was hit, there was a combined experience of 52 years -- but even that couldn't help stop what happened.

Stephen Perno is a 25-year veteran of the MBTA with a great driving record; he was the driver of the trolley that got hit.

"He said it was terrible. They were stopped and the people are getting on and off and bouncing all over the place -- which made it awful really,” said Nancy Perno, mother.

Perno's mother told 7News he may have cracked a bone in his neck during the crash. State transportation officials aren't sure could have been avoided.

“We will look at operator error. Again, everything will be on the table. We will make a thorough investigation then let the public know what exactly occurred and how we’re going to address it,” said Richard Davey, Secretary of Transportation.

The second man in Perno's trolley has 27 years with the T. The driver who hit them has six years of experience and has a clean driving record -- so does Perno.

Ironically, Perno is being awarded the MBTA's Safe Driver Award Friday morning, but he will not be in attendance to accept the award.

“All these years he was never in an accident of any kind. He's been with them for over 20 years. You know really and truly he's a very good driver," Nancy Perno said. "But he was parked. That's the worst part."

Officials said they are focusing on the trolley itself and human error. The T employees are off the job until further notice.