Transformer explosion, fire along Amtrak tracks in the Bronx cause service suspension
NEW YORK — A transformer explosion and fire along Amtrak tracks in the Bronx caused service suspensions in the region Tuesday.
Fire officials said they were called to a building on Bronxdale Avenue near East Tremont Avenue in Parkchester around 2:15 p.m. for a report of a fire. Officials say the 60,000-square-foot building is used to store auto parts, hydraulic equipment, pallets and vehicles.
According to FDNY Chief of Operations Kevin Woods, crews found very heavy fire condition upon arrival and the fire grew to three alarms.
About a quarter mile away, there was another fire after an Amtrak transformer exploded. According to fire officials, the flames spread to brush, then a nearby Con Edison facility. Three cars in that parking lot also caught fire, Con Ed officials said.
"There was a big explosion. You could literally see the fire in the sky, like huge. It was just like pop, and then like everything looked like it burst into flames," witness De'lyn Williams-Negron said.
Fire officials are investigating the causes of both fires and whether or not they're related.
Both fires are under control at this time. No injuries were reported.
Amtrak service suspended between New York Penn Station, New Haven
Because of the fire, Amtrak had to shut down power at the substation.
As a result, all service between New York Penn Station and New Haven has been suspended for the rest of the day. It is unknown when service will be restored.
Limited service will be available between Boston South Station and New Haven.
Metro-North Railroad will cross-honor Amtrak tickets. Travelers who wish to use Metro-North as an alternative means of transportation will need to board the train at New York Grand Central Station. Amtrak says they are not offering any form of transportation between Penn Station and Grand Central at this time.
Service between Boston, New Haven and New York-Washington is also expected to experience delays for the rest of the day. More information is available on Amtrak's website.
