Green Line train derails near Lechmere Station in Cambridge
CAMBRIDGE - Seven people were injured after a Green Line train derailed near Lechmere Station in Cambridge Tuesday evening. MBTA officials said they are focused on "human factors" as the derailment is investigated.
Approximately 50 people were on board the train when it derailed after leaving Lechmere Station at about 5 p.m.
MBTA Chief Operating Officer Ryan Coholan said it happened at the Red Bridge interlocking, where the Medford/Tufts branch and Union branch intersect.
"While the train was traversing over that switch, the lead truck and the center truck of the leading Green Line trolley derailed," Coholan said.
All the passengers evacuated themselves onto the tracks and walked to an emergency exit. The seven people who were taken to the hospital suffered minor injuries, according to the MBTA.
Investigation focused on "human factors"
The exact cause of the derailment is still under investigation. "Preliminary indications do rule out any issues with the track structure and right now we are focused on the human factors involved with this incident," Coholan said.
Shuttle buses are replacing service between North Station and Medford/Tufts due to the derailment. Passengers can also use the 87 bus for alternate service.
"The MBTA sincerely apologizes to riders for the frustration and distress this incident has caused," the MBTA said in a statement. "We are committed to thoroughly investigating this matter to ensure this does not happen again."
Crews were still working to re-rail the train Tuesday night. The MBTA expected service to return to normal on the Green Line Wednesday morning.