A terrible Washington D.C. metro train accident has occurred today. The Associated Press recently reported that two, Red line transit trains collided in Washington D.C., severely injuring upwards of 70 people. At least six people have been confirmed dead as a result of the accident. Investigators have not determined the cause of the crash, although it is known that both trains were traveling on the same track. According to the D.C. Emergency Management Agency, “all passengers have been removed from the trains.”
Alan Ettner, District of Columbia fire spokesman described the event as a “mass casualty event.” Cars from one train jackknifed into the air, and fell onto the other train. The crash, which took place at the height of evening rush hour, occurred in the Washington D.C. area just outside of the Maryland border, in between the Fort Totten and Takoma Park stations. The two collided trains had to be cut apart in order to rescue passengers, many of whom were in visible shock. The crash is the deadliest in D.C. Metro history.
Passenger Jodie Wickett, a nurse and one of the passengers, remained at the scene to help out however she could. According to Wickett, “Lots of people were upset and crying, but there were no screams.” Another witness, Barry Student, was riding his bicycle near the Metro tracks when the crash occurred. He reported not seeing “any panic,” and labeled the “whole situation [as] surreal.”
John Catoe, Metro general manager, reported that at least 60 people have been rescued from the train wreckage, and could not offer any reason as to what caused the accident.
Amy Kudwa, spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, said that there is so far no indication that this incident was the result of any sort of terrorist act.
The Steve Heisler Injury Legal Team will continue to monitor this developing situation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and families of victims of this terrible crash.