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There are a few sketchy reports of two Metrolink trains and a parked UP train colliding this morning, south of LA. Anybody know any more? Speculation as to cause - derailment, red light?
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Southbound (Metrolink) hit a car at a grade crossing. It derailed further down the line and the derailing Cab Car then struck a parked UP MOW (right into the heavy loco!) train on a siding. This caused the second car on the southbound (Metrolink) to accordion fouling the northbound track. As it turns out a northbound (Metrolink) happened to pass just at that moment and the second to last car (on the northbound Metrolink) was sideswiped by the derailed (southbound Metrolink). Derailing several of the northbound's cars.
Damage was severe! As of last report 9 deaths (considering the damage many were lucky, but this number could increase over the next few days).
Hard to estimate but I'd say at least 4 Metrolink coaches (2 being Cab Cars) are a total loss. The UP loco doesn't look as bad and may be salvageable.
Terrible day for everyone here.
It is unknown (at this time) if the car on the tracks was trying to beat the gates, a suicide attempt, a stalled car, or even a terrorist act. But it was the cause and likely very preventable
EDIT Looks like this was a backed out of suicide attempt that went horrendously wrong. One person who wanted to take their own life took the lives of at least 9 others. I'm sure justice will not be done (as most would like to see) considering insanity defense is a very viable option for the person attempting the suicide.
[This message has been edited by Southwest Chief (edited 01-26-2005).]
[This message has been edited by Southwest Chief (edited 01-26-2005).]
Railroad Bob Member # 3508
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I will be interested to know JUAN MIGUEL ALVAREZ's immigration status...as to the insanity defense, since he "chickened out" of the suicide attempt, he also stood there and watched the carnage he caused. I think there was a clear indication of "knowing right from wrong." All I can hope, for the killed, maimed and hundreds of lives ruined by Mr. Alvarez's actions today, that justice will be served. And, wouldn't it have been simpler and more effective to just have lain down on the tracks, rather than use his vehicle, and then like a coward run away from it? Like Sheriff Baca, I am outraged.
Geoff Mayo Member # 153
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That is terrible, appearing to be a suicide attempt. It brings echoes of the one in the UK just last month where I think 8 people were killed - "only" 8 despite the train doing nearly 100mph. Any ideas what sort of speed these trains would have been doing?
Geoff M.
travelplus Member # 3679
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Wednesdays are unlucky days. I've noticed lot's of bad things happen on Wednesdays not to be superstitous but then again that my be my view.
However it's sad for this bad event to occur. I read the artciles about how the man put his SUV on the tracks in attempt to commit suicide. What is going through his head? Does he need some extra coffee or something? Was he like"What the heck I know the next Metrolink is coming around wouldn't it be a neat idea to be killed or to kill those onboarrd? Very psycho to say nonetheless.
JONATHON Member # 2899
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In the State of Cali the punishment for TRAIN WRECKING is Life without parol- they say he will be charged with merder as well.
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I heard this on KFWB radio here in LA today that an illegal man left his car on tracks and at the last minute got out.
Sad this person wanted to take his life, then did not and took several other innocent peoples lives.
--Anton
[This message has been edited by CoastStarlight99 (edited 01-26-2005).]
JONATHON Member # 2899
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Among the dead- a Life-Long RailFan, who absolootly loved Trains and even knew the owner of the "The Whistle Stop"- a Model Train Store I used to ften visit- and CS, he was not an illegal, but yes, he deserves what he gets.
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(considering the damage many were lucky, but this number could increase over the next few days).