BART admits interrupting cellphone service during protest

The Bay Area Rapid Transit District acknowledged Friday that it interrupted cellphone service at some stations earlier this week when activists threatened a civil disturbance.

BART said it took the action out of concern for the safety of subway users.

"A civil disturbance during commute times at busy downtown San Francisco stations could lead to platform overcrowding and unsafe conditions for BART customers, employees and demonstrators," the transit system said in a statement.

The shutdown occurred Thursday.

Officials said cell service outside the BART station was not affected and that BART officials and police were available to deal with user emergencies.

Protesters were demonstrating against the shooting of a man carrying a knife on a subway platform on July 7.

[Updated at 4:08 p.m.: According to the Associated Press, the man was shot by BART police officers in the Civic Center subway station. Police say he was carrying a knife and appeared to be drunk.]

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Photo: The Bay Area Rapid Transit. Credit: Los Angeles Times