Metra train hits at least 17 vehicles in Chicago

[PrObLy]

http://cbs2chicago.com/topstories/lo...327181544.html

(CBS) ELMWOOD PARK A Metra train has hit multiple vehicles on Grand Ave. west of Harlem Avenue in Elmwood Park.

A Metra spokesman says the train heading to Antioch from downtown Chicago has struck numerous vehicles near the commuter rail's Elmwood Park station.

Spokesman Patrick Waldron says at least one of the vehicles burst into flames as a result of the accident.

There was no information available regarding injuries.

Waldron says the train probably was carrying several hundred passengers when the collision occurred. It is unclear if any passengers on board the Metra train were injured. It appears the train remained upright and on the tracks.

The train left Chicago's Union Station at 4:25 p.m.

At least 17 vehicles were severely damaged when the Metra train crossed the intersection.

It is a level 2 EMS response with 10 ambulances coming to the scene from neighboring suburbs, including Elmwood Park, River Grove, River Forest, Schiller Park.

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This just happened so there's not too much information, but they have all the news choppers there and it looks like a total mess.

One station had a witness call in and he said that the traffic was really backed up and the train seemingly came out of nowhere and nailed all these cars.

He also said that the crossing gates didn't go down until AFTER the train had plowed through. He sounded pretty rattled, so he could have been mistaken.

If any of you are wondering how 17 cars could be hit by a train at just one intersection it's because the intersection crosses the tracks at roughly 45 degrees so there were many cars on, and close to, the tracks in both directions.

(oops, meant to put this in automotive/transportation)
[No Problemo - your friendly GAM]

[Mommypooh]

wow that sounds nasty. Keep us updated.