With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Metrolink Train Derailment Rescue Operations Continue*
Photo by Zach Behrens/LAist
UPDATE 7:48 p.m. Conflicting reports cite different numbers for current confirmed fatalities; KABC referenced an Associated Press report giving the estimated number of deaths as 20, whereas the Daily News reports 15. Currently the worst Metrolink accident on record involved 11 fatalities; as rescue operations continue, and possibly convert to recovery operations, into the night today's collision may become the worst Metrolink accident in the commuter rail's history.
Sponsored message
UPDATE 7:13 p.m. The major rescue operation continues, as Metrolink spokeswoman Denise Tyrrell says there are still victims needing to be removed from the overturned passenger car. At least 70 injuries have been reported, and it is possible that there are now 7 fatalities in this tragedy. An urban search-and-rescue team has been on scene for some time now to aid in the rescue operations. Many people who live or were pursuing recreational activities in the area remain stuck near the accident scene because their vehicles are blocked by emergency vehicles. There has been no information released regarding the status of people on board the Union Pacific freight train. Family members who believe a relative was on board may call 800-371-5465 for information, but Tyrrell stresses that this number is ONLY for family members.
*UPDATE: 6:19 p.m. KABC is reporting that there are 6 fatalities thus far. Rescuers are still removing people from the train. In an unrelated event, a Metrolink train in Corona struck a vehicle that did not leave the track in time just after 5 this afternoon, and there was one fatality in that incident.
Rescue personnel are still in the process of assisting people involved in this afternoon's Metrolink train derailment. Triage areas are set up near the scene in Chatsworth as people continue to be assessed and aided following the collision that took place at 4:23 this afternoon when Metrolink #111 struck or was struck by a freight train. 4 people are reported dead, and many more have been injured. A SigAlert has been issued for the area as well, and Metrolink and emergency personnel are asking that people not attempt to go to the scene themselves.
Photo by Zach Behrens/LAist
At LAist, we focus on what matters to our community: clear, fair, and transparent reporting that helps you make decisions with confidence and keeps powerful institutions accountable.
Your support for independent local news is critical. With federal funding for public media gone, LAist faces a $1.7 million yearly shortfall. Speaking frankly, how much reader support we receive now will determine the strength of this reliable source of local information now and for years to come.
This work is only possible with community support. Every investigation, service guide, and story is made possible by people like you who believe that local news is a public good and that everyone deserves access to trustworthy local information.
That’s why we’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Thank you for understanding how essential it is to have an informed community and standing up for free press.
Your support for independent local news is critical. With federal funding for public media gone, LAist faces a $1.7 million yearly shortfall. Speaking frankly, how much reader support we receive now will determine the strength of this reliable source of local information now and for years to come.
This work is only possible with community support. Every investigation, service guide, and story is made possible by people like you who believe that local news is a public good and that everyone deserves access to trustworthy local information.
That’s why we’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Thank you for understanding how essential it is to have an informed community and standing up for free press.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
