MSA's Research and Intelligence Analysis (RIA) Group is following this morning's Metro North train derailment and its implications to the Monday morning commute.
At approximately 7:20 AM a Metro North train enroute from Poughkeepsie to Grand Central Terminal derailed. The cause of this crash has not yet been determined. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigators are on the way to the scene to begin the investigation. The NYPD, FDNY, and other emergency services were quick to respond to the incident and begin rescue and treatment of casualties.
The latest reports indicate that there have been 4 fatalities in addition to 67 other casualties. Eleven casualties are in critical condition.
The Sunday following Thanksgiving is typically one of the busiest travel days of the year. This, along with the holiday shopping season in New York City reaching full-swing, contributed to the number of passengers on this early Sunday morning train.
The investigation and clean up of the incident will likely result in impacts on tomorrow morning's commute. Prior to allowing new train traffic, engineers will have to conduct an inspection of the tracks to ensure they are operable. This may also contribute to potential delays in the restoration of services.
Currently, Metro North has posted the following Special Service Notice on its website:
Hudson Line Service Alert: Hudson Line service is suspended between Tarrytown and Grand Central due to a derailed train in the vicinity of Spuyten Duyvil. Bus service will be provided between White Plains and Tarrytown Station for customers wishing to travel in and out of Grand Central. Shuttle bus service will commence at approximately 11 AM. Customers at stations between Irvington and Yankees-E. 153rd St. Station are urged to use the Harlem Line, NYCT Subway and/or bus service. Hudson Line tickets will be cross honored for these services. Please continue to check this website for updates.
JFK High School at 99 Terrace View Ave. in the Bronx has been established as a family center and 718-817-7444 is the contact number for those seeking the status of family members who may have been aboard the train. Or call 311 in NYC, or 212-New-York (212-639-9675).MSA's RIA Group will continue to monitor this situation as well as potential implications and alternatives for the morning commute.
Follow @MSA_Security on Twitter, or visit our Facebook page for updates.
