In some configurations, the present invention is an apparatus for monitoring events on board a transportation vehicle. The apparatus includes a communication system configured to stream data from the transportation vehicle to an external location at least one monitoring device configured to collect video data, audio data, or both, from events occurring on the transportation vehicle; a latching mechanism in a location inaccessible during travel and configured to activate the communication system to stream data from the monitoring device or devices to the external location; and a switch configured to activate the latching mechanism when the switch is activated.