A Metro North train heading north on the Harlem line struck a car in Westchester, New York, killing six and injuring many others, officials say.
The train, which left from Grand Central Terminal, hit a Jeep Cherokee at around 6:30 p.m. during the evening rush hour at the Commerce Street Crossing in Valhalla after the Jeep was stopped on the tracks.
MTA spokesman Aaron Donovan said the Jeep stopped on the tracks and that's when the crossing gates came down on it. Donovan said the Jeep driver got out of the car and looked at the back of the vehicle before getting back in and driving forward when they were hit.
The crash caused a fire instantly killing the Jeep driver and 5 passengers on board the train. The MTA quickly rushed to evacuate the rest of the passengers. People reportedly had to break windows and use ladders in order to evacuate.
The 12 injured passengers were taken to hospitals in the area.
NYC: @MetroNorth suspended on Harlem Line due to a Accident involving a Train Vs Car Multiple injuries reported. pic.twitter.com/lRztCYXTsq
— NYC Scanner (@NYScanner) February 4, 20151.
[via NBC]
