Major Delays After Metra Train Strikes, Kills Pedestrian In Hinsdale
UPDATED: 3/18/2013 5:00 p.m.
CHICAGO (CBS) -- An inbound Metra train struck and killed a pedestrian in Hinsdale on Monday afternoon, causing major delays on the BNSF line for the evening commute.
"We are expecting crowds at Chicago Union Station and are implementing our emergency overcrowding plan," according to a statement on Metra's website. "Metra recommends BNSF commuters remain downtown until service is restored or seek alternate transportation."
As of 5 p.m. a track in each direction is now open.
When an emergency overcrowding plan is implemented, passengers may be directed to the Great Hall to alleviate overcrowding on the platforms.
Burlington Northern Santa Fe train No. 1268 from Aurora, which was due in Chicago at 3:47 p.m., struck the pedestrian at the West Hinsdale station around 3 p.m., Hinsdale police spokesman Mark Wodka.
Service has been stopped in that area in both directions while authorities investigate.
Trains will be delayed between 60 to 75 minutes, according to Metra spokesman Michael Gillis.
The Staough Crossing in that area is closed, but traffic is not expected to be affected because it is not a heavily traveled area.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
