This is a preliminary statement. The information below is subject to change as this is an ongoing investigation.
On Monday, January 15, 2018 at approximately 6:27AM EST, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Red Line Train 106 originating from Shady Grove station and enroute to Glenmont station derailed while traveling from Farragut North station to Metro Center station. Train 106 departed Farragut North at approximately 6:26AM and, after traveling about 2,200 feet and reaching an estimated maximum speed of about 39 MPH, came to a stop after the operator reported a loss of train propulsion and being unable to release the train’s brakes. WMATA personnel who responded to the incident reported light smoke was visible from Metro Center station, and DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (DCFEMS) was notified around 6:28AM.
Train 106 consisted of the following eight railcars (in order of direction of travel): 7306, 7307, 7305, 7304, 7214, 7215, 7315, and 7314; 7214, 7215, and 7315 (cars 5, 6, and 7) derailed. Train 106 was carrying 64 individuals, none of whom are reported to have sustained any major injuries. Damage to the tracks, tunnel, and railcars have yet to be determined. The 64 individuals aboard the train were evacuated to Metro Center via the trackbed at about 8:00AM, approximately 90 minutes after the incident.
Edit: This original version of this preliminary statement asserted that the first seven cars of the incident train derailed. This was based on initial information from DCFEMS and was incorrect. We’ve since corrected this post; according to WMATA, only cars 5, 6, and 7 of the incident train derailed.
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