Crews working to clear derailed commuter train in NorCal
SUNOL, Calif. -- Crews are working to clear the scene after a commuter train struck a tree and derailed in Northern California, plunging its lead car into a rain-swollen creek and sending passengers scrambling in the dark to get out of the partially submerged car.
The Ace Train was traveling from San Jose to Stockton when it derailed in Alameda County Monday night. It was a chaotic scene with emergency rescuers jumping into the chilly creek to rescue passengers. Rescuers said you could hear screams over the radio.
There were more than 200 people on board the train. Nine people were injured and two of the victims remain hospitalized. All of the injured are expected to survive.
All ACE Train service was canceled for Tuesday.
Union Pacific had heavy equipment at the scene and is hoping to have the train cleared by 4:00 p.m. Tuesday.
They have made good progress in their cleanup efforts and in their investigation. Workers for Pacific Union have cleared three of the cars, but moving the derailed portion has posed quite a challenge.
Seeing the derailed train in the light of day was a shock for workers as they arrived at the scene Tuesday morning, with many saying they felt like they were looking at the set of a movie.
"It's just unbelievable. You think of the sheer power of a train once it derails. A train doesn't stop like a car - it keeps going, pushing into the creek. Must have been terrifying for everyone," said Sgt. J.D. Nelson, Alameda County Sheriff's Office.
ACE has not given an estimated time when full service will resume.
