A Green Line train derailed near Lechmere Station in Cambridge, Massachusetts on Tuesday evening, leaving seven people with minor injuries. The incident, which occurred around 5 p.m. local time, saw approximately 50 passengers temporarily stranded. The derailment took place at the Red Bridge interlocking, where the Medford/Tufts and Union branches of the Green Line intersect.
Despite the disruption, all passengers were able to safely evacuate by walking along the tracks to an emergency exit. The seven individuals who suffered injuries were treated for minor conditions and transported to the hospital.
While the exact cause of the derailment remains under investigation, initial reports from MBTA Chief Operating Officer Ryan Coholan indicate that the agency is focusing on potential “human factors” as the culprit. Coholan assured the public that no issues with the track structure had been detected. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is also sending a team to assist in the investigation, aiming to determine the specific circumstances that led to the train leaving the tracks.
The derailment resulted in the temporary suspension of MBTA service between North Station and Medford/Tufts. Shuttle buses were deployed to accommodate passengers during this disruption, and commuters were advised to utilize alternative routes, including the 87 bus. Cleanup efforts were ongoing as of early Wednesday morning, with service expected to resume as soon as the site is cleared.
As the investigation continues, MBTA officials are diligently working to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent future incidents.
