Amtrak Train Derailment in D.C. Halts Trains, Causes Delays Across Northeast

An Amtrak train derailed in Washington, D.C. Tuesday morning, causing the temporary suspension of trains traveling between the nation’s capital and Virginia, and causing delays throughout the Northeast, an Amtrak spokesperson told Travel Market Report Tuesday afternoon. 

Two train cars of the Amtrak Northeast Regional Train 86 derailed at about 8:47 a.m. while traveling north at a low speed through a tunnel just south of Washington Union Station. The train remained upright, and no injuries were reported, although one employee sought medical evaluation. 

“Trains operating between Washington D.C. and Alexandria are stopped due to a disabled train in the tunnel blocking the tracks south of Washington,” an Amtrak alert posted to the Amtrak Northeast Twitter account said. “Rail service in and out of Washington is currently impacted. Delays are expected. We will update as more information becomes available.” 

According to Amtrak Alerts, southbound trains headed for D.C. were instead stopping their routes in Raleigh, N.C., and there was no service between D.C and Raliegh following the disruption. 

First responders assisted those on board the train, while Amtrak staff helped reroute travelers waiting to board at Union Station after the incident. Those who were on board the derailed Train 86 were provided alternate transportation to the station. 

Workers are inspecting the area and placing the lead and coach cars back on the tracks. Amtrak is still investigating the cause of the derailment.