A SEPTA train traveling from Philadelphia to Wilmington caught fire on Thursday night, February 6, 2025, at Crum Lynne Station in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania. The incident occurred around 6 p.m., prompting the evacuation of approximately 350 passengers as flames and smoke erupted from the first car.
- Pennsylvania commuter train caught fire
- Incident occurred at Crum Lynne Station
- Approximately 350 passengers on board
- Quick evacuation by conductors praised
- No injuries reported from the fire
- Investigation launched into fire's cause
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) train was carrying around 350 passengers when the fire broke out in the first car. Conductors acted quickly to evacuate everyone on board after a passenger noticed a strange smell shortly into the journey. Eyewitness accounts describe thick black smoke and bright orange flames visible from the windows of the affected car.
Firefighters arrived promptly to combat the blaze. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among passengers or crew members. An investigation is underway to determine whether the fire originated from an issue with the train’s engine or something on the tracks.
- Date of Incident: February 6, 2025
- Location: Crum Lynne Station, Ridley Park, Pennsylvania
- Passengers Evacuated: Approximately 350
- No Injuries Reported
Shuttle buses were dispatched to transport stranded passengers after service to Wilmington was temporarily halted during firefighting efforts. Amtrak services along the Northeast Corridor were also impacted but have since resumed operations. Andrew Busch, a spokesperson for SEPTA, commended both the train crew and first responders for their swift actions that ensured passenger safety despite the serious nature of the incident.
This incident highlights potential risks associated with commuter rail travel but also demonstrates effective emergency response measures that prioritize passenger safety.
