A beloved Boston University professor died Saturday after falling from a breach in a rusty staircase near a city train station that had been closed for more than a year, according to a report.
David K. Jones, 40, the father of three married children, was fleeing when a tragedy occurred near Dorchester’s JFK MBTA station, The Boston Globe reported, citing authorities and relatives.
“He fell 20 feet and most likely died instantly,” Jones’ heartbroken wife said in a Facebook post. “The void he leaves behind is unspeakable.”
In posts on social media, MBTA Commuter Rail’s Twitter account had repeatedly warned not to use the ladders, which have been closed for about 20 months, according to the report.
Both entrances to the staircase, which leads to the Red Line station, had been closed at the time of the accident.
Some rusty steps were located on the ground under the stairs, according to the report, although it was not clear when they were released.
Jones was an associate professor in the department of law, policy, and health management at the BU School of Public Health.
The dean of the department, Dr. Sandro Galea said Jones was “loved by his students” in an interview with the Globe.
“It had a positive presence at the school and helped make it a better place,” Galea said.
“He was just a good guy, always willing to get involved and take on projects that would help the school, help his students, and I valued him very much.”
In her post on social media, Sacuto said her husband “was the most affectionate, kind and considerate person he knew.”
“He was the best father. He loved dancing with Phish, being outdoors and running. He loved her unconditionally and was the proudest father of his children. I loved him, ”he said.