Dozens injured in New York train collision

SYRACUSE, New York (CNN) -- An Amtrak train crashed into the back of a CSX freight train near Syracuse, New York, on Monday, injuring more than 40 people, derailing four passenger cars and spilling lumber onto the tracks.

The accident, involving Amtrak's Empire Service train, happened on a track in Salina, on the northern edge of Syracuse around 11:35 a.m. The front of the passenger train struck the rear end of the freight train, which had been carrying lumber. The passenger train had left the Syracuse station just before the accident.

"The cause of the collision is under investigation," Amtrak said in a press release.

The release stated 44 passengers reported injuries, but "none of the injuries appeared serious." Amtrak noted that medical information was still being compiled.

A total of 98 passengers and four crew members were on board the Amtrak train. The lead locomotive and four of the five passenger cars were derailed, Amtrak said, but all of the equipment was upright.

East-west passenger service had been interrupted because of the accident, according to Stephen Wisely, commissioner with the Department of Emergency Communications in Onondaga County.

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Amtrak
  • Routes & Services - Trains & Routes (Empire Service)
Department of Emergency Communications (Onondaga County)

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