Motorman dead, dozens injured in suspicious Harlem subway fire

An MTA motorman is dead and at least a dozen other people are injured in a suspicious fire on a Harlem subway car that spewed heavy smoke through stations and tunnels and further delayed service already curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic.

The fire broke out Friday inside a northbound No. 2 train as it entered the 110th Street station, near Central Park, at approximately 3:14 a.m.

As the No. 2 train reached 110th Street, an employee on the train reported heavy smoke and fire in the second car. The motorman was found on the tracks and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

"The entire MTA family mourns his death alongside a grateful city," MTA chairman and CEO Patrick J. Foye wrote in a statement. "Our hearts break for his family, loved ones and all those who knew him. The NYPD is actively investigating the incident for criminality."

"Our conductor acted heroically to move passengers to the platform out of danger, and deserves our deepest thanks and support for his bravery," said TWU Local 100 president Tony Utano, noting that the conductor was "just 36 years of age."

A police source told ABC News that a "person of interest" was being questioned.

Several other fires were reported at 86th, 96th and 116th Streets that police said may be connected.

“The most important thing I need is witnesses to come forward,” said NYPD Deputy Chief Brian McGee.

The MTA is offering up to $50,000 in reward for information leading to the arrest, indictment and conviction of the person(s) "responsible for this terrible tragedy," added Foye.

The Crime Stoppers tip line to call with information for the rewards being offered by MTA, Crime Stoppers and the Police Foundation is 800-577-TIPS (800-577-8477).