NTSB Begins Probe Into Chicago Commuter Practice Crash That Injured 40

CHICAGO (AP) – Federal security officers stated Friday they’ve launched an investigation right into a Chicago commuter practice crash that injured almost 40 folks however they`re possible greater than a 12 months away from releasing any conclusions about what brought on the incident.

Nationwide Transportation Security Board Chairperson Jennifer Homendy stated throughout a brief information convention Friday {that a} staff of seven investigators from her company has began documenting the scene of the crash. They count on to spend about 5 days on the scene.

The investigators haven’t reviewed occasion recorders or video of the incident but, she stated. The company expects to challenge a preliminary report in a matter of weeks, she stated, however didn`t specify when. The company will possible want a 12 months to 18 months to supply a closing report with an evaluation of what occurred, conclusions and suggestions, Homendy stated.

The Chicago Transit Authority practice was heading south from Skokie on Thursday morning when it rear-ended snow-removal gear that was shifting forward of it on the identical tracks. Thirty-eight folks had been harm; 23 had been taken to space hospitals. Nobody suffered life-threatening accidents, in accordance with paramedics.

It stays unclear whether or not the practice operator noticed the gear and tried to decelerate or cease the practice earlier than the collision. It`s additionally unclear whether or not the operator had been warned the gear could be on the tracks.

Homendy had no particulars Friday on the practice`s pace or what might have precipitated the crash.

Jim Southworth, the NTSB investigator main the probe into the crash, stated the practice was outfitted with an automated practice management system that’s designed to assist forestall collisions by stopping the practice in sure circumstances. Homendy stated investigators will look into what function, if any, the system performed within the crash.

The NTSB has stated that system isn’t as complete because the newer automated braking system referred to as Constructive Practice Management. Congress required most railroads to put in Constructive Practice Management within the wake of a 2008 collision between a commuter and freight practice in California that killed 25 and injured greater than 100.

Photograph: Chicago Fireplace Division and Chicago Police Division personnel triage sufferers work the scene after a Chicago Transit Authority practice crashed into a bit of apparatus that was on the rails close to the Howard CTA station on the North Aspect, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023 in Chicago. (Ashlee Rezin /Chicago Solar-Instances by way of AP)

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