Metro’s radio system is plagued with dead spots throughout its network, making it difficult for transit agency officials to communicate in emergencies when the radios fade in and out. It particularly is a problem for the agency’s police force as officers patrol the underground network. The failures jeopardizes the safety of officers and riders, according to the police union Metro Transit Police Labor Committee.

Most recently, the radios failed on Halloween night as dozens of teens fought in the Foggy Bottom Metro station, leading to confusion as pepper spray was released. The failures also created concern that night when a teen shot in the head sought help in the New York Avenue Metro station. Some police couldn’t understand a Metro Transit Police officer calling for backup while investigating reports that the shooter had run into the station, the union said.