A Hempstead man faces an assault charge after striking an...

A Hempstead man faces an assault charge after striking an LIRR conductor Monday on the Montauk line, MTA officials said Credit: Howard Schnapp

A Hempstead man faces an assault charge after striking a Long Island Rail Road conductor on an eastbound Montauk train, the MTA said.

Edward Etson, 59, refused to pay train fare and hit the conductor about 1:20 p.m. Monday near the Hampton Bays LIRR station, officials said.

Southampton police were first on the scene and detained the man until MTA officers arrived, according to agency officials.

"This outrageous assault on a conductor simply doing her job is totally unacceptable," said MTA acting chair and CEO Janno Lieber in a statement. "This idiotic criminal, who refused to pay the fare and then took out his issues on a LIRR employee deserves to have the book thrown at him, starting with an aggressive prosecution for felony assault."

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing. No additional details were released.

With Joan Gralla

Suburban voters and midterms ... Oyster Bay proposed budget ... Jets vs. Dolphins preview  Credit: Newsday

Luxe apts. got tax break without affordable housing ... Suburban voters and midterms ... LI employs 90% of highest paid government employees ... County on hook for $70M for dangerous intersection

Suburban voters and midterms ... Oyster Bay proposed budget ... Jets vs. Dolphins preview  Credit: Newsday

Luxe apts. got tax break without affordable housing ... Suburban voters and midterms ... LI employs 90% of highest paid government employees ... County on hook for $70M for dangerous intersection

Subscribe

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

SUBSCRIBESALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME