PHILADELPHIA, PA – A SEPTA train carrying around 350 passengers caught fire on Thursday evening in Delaware County. The incident took place near the Crum Lynne Station in Ridley Park as the train was en route from Philadelphia to Wilmington.
SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch reported that the train was evacuated quickly after it was discovered that the first car was on fire. “Our crews’ swift response contributed to the safe outcome of the incident,” Busch stated. The exact origin of the fire remains unknown, but it was initially noticed in the area underneath the train before engulfing the entire train in flames.
Passengers on board recounted smelling smoke shortly after departing from Philadelphia. Cynthia Kayati from Smyrna, Delaware described a strange, sulfury odor upon departure, which intensified as the train approached Crum Lynne. Another passenger, Alvan Hurley from Newark, mentioned that panic started to set in among passengers as the smell became more prominent a few stations later.
Despite the unsettling situation, no injuries were reported among the passengers on board SEPTA’s train. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation as officials work to determine the factors that led to the flames engulfing the six-car train.
The quick response and evacuation procedures carried out by SEPTA personnel played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in the incident. As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, SEPTA is working to resume normal operations and keep passengers informed about any updates regarding the incident.