Please be patient as we post the hundreds of articles, pictures and videos coverage of the many light rail accidents at MTA's at-grade crossings.
In the interim just the facts:
Blue Line fatality rate for FY08: 1.77 per million train miles
Road fatality rate for 04-07: 0.0118 per million vehicle miles traveled
Blue Line accident rate for FY08: 17.1 per million train miles
Freeway accident rate for 2007: 1.09 per million vehicle miles traveled
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
September 12, 2008 - a Day of Rail Tragedies in Southern California
On the same day as the historic Metrolink accidents in Chatsworth between a commuter train and freight train that's left 26 dead and 135 injured, and a commuter train-car accident in Corona that left a woman dead, the Blue Line struck a pedestrian at the Vernon Station.
Apparently the incident was overlooked, as the only references on the web can be found on blogs.
Apparently the incident was overlooked, as the only references on the web can be found on blogs.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Gold Line Accident at the Del Mar Crossing
Metro Gold Line train hits car, 1 injured
The vehicle parked on the tracks is struck about 11:40 a.m. in Pasadena.
Los Angeles Times
By Victoria Kim
August 12, 2008
A Metro Gold Line train struck a vehicle parked on the tracks this morning in Pasadena, seriously injuring an Altadena man, authorities said.
The driver, a man around 60 years old, suffered cuts to his head and hands and complained of pain in his legs but was conscious, said Lisa Derderian, spokeswoman for the Pasadena Fire Department.
The train was traveling southbound near the Del Mar station when it struck a four-door Geo Prizm, Derderian said. Crossings were down when the train struck the vehicle around 11:40 a.m., and it was not immediately clear why the man was on the tracks, she said.
Pasadena police were interviewing the estimated 40 people who were on the train. Surrounding streets were cordoned off as police and Metro authorities investigated the incident.
The man, whose identity was not immediately released, was transported to a nearby hospital.
Also:
The vehicle parked on the tracks is struck about 11:40 a.m. in Pasadena.
Los Angeles Times
By Victoria Kim
August 12, 2008
A Metro Gold Line train struck a vehicle parked on the tracks this morning in Pasadena, seriously injuring an Altadena man, authorities said.
The driver, a man around 60 years old, suffered cuts to his head and hands and complained of pain in his legs but was conscious, said Lisa Derderian, spokeswoman for the Pasadena Fire Department.
The train was traveling southbound near the Del Mar station when it struck a four-door Geo Prizm, Derderian said. Crossings were down when the train struck the vehicle around 11:40 a.m., and it was not immediately clear why the man was on the tracks, she said.
Pasadena police were interviewing the estimated 40 people who were on the train. Surrounding streets were cordoned off as police and Metro authorities investigated the incident.
The man, whose identity was not immediately released, was transported to a nearby hospital.
Also:
- Covered by KCBS
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Blue Line Hits Car at Olive St
Compact Car Hits Blue Line Train Near Downtown L.A.
The car's driver suffers minor injuries but no train passengers are hurt. Blue Line service is delayed about 20 minutes.
Los Angeles Times
By Francisco Vara-Orta
June 24, 2008
One motorist suffered minor injuries after her car struck a Blue Line train near downtown this morning, causing minimal delays, officials said.
The incident occurred about 6:40 a.m. at 219 W. Washington Blvd., near Olive Street, when the driver turned in front of the train in her compact sedan, said d'Lisa Davies, a Los Angeles Fire Department spokeswoman.
There were no injuries to the passengers on the three-car train, which was en route to downtown from Long Beach. The collision took place near the Blue Line's Grand Avenue station. The motorist was transported to California Hospital Medical Center with minor injuries, Davies said.
The incident caused about a 20-minute delay but service had resumed by 7:15 a.m., Metro spokeswoman Gayle Anderson said.
The Blue Line train involved in the incident was cleared from the scene, and moved to an off-track area at 7th Street/Metro Center for further examination by mechanics. Passengers were allowed to board the next train, Anderson said.
Also:
The car's driver suffers minor injuries but no train passengers are hurt. Blue Line service is delayed about 20 minutes.
Los Angeles Times
By Francisco Vara-Orta
June 24, 2008
One motorist suffered minor injuries after her car struck a Blue Line train near downtown this morning, causing minimal delays, officials said.
The incident occurred about 6:40 a.m. at 219 W. Washington Blvd., near Olive Street, when the driver turned in front of the train in her compact sedan, said d'Lisa Davies, a Los Angeles Fire Department spokeswoman.
There were no injuries to the passengers on the three-car train, which was en route to downtown from Long Beach. The collision took place near the Blue Line's Grand Avenue station. The motorist was transported to California Hospital Medical Center with minor injuries, Davies said.
The incident caused about a 20-minute delay but service had resumed by 7:15 a.m., Metro spokeswoman Gayle Anderson said.
The Blue Line train involved in the incident was cleared from the scene, and moved to an off-track area at 7th Street/Metro Center for further examination by mechanics. Passengers were allowed to board the next train, Anderson said.
Also:
- Reported on LAFD-Alert
Friday, June 20, 2008
Monday, April 7, 2008
Blue Line Kills Elder & Critically Injures Teenager on Same Day in Separate Accidents
L.B. Woman, 75, Dies After Her Car Struck by Blue Line Train
Long Beach Press-Telegram
Kelly Puente
April 7, 2008
LONG BEACH - A 75-year-old Long Beach woman was killed in a car accident on Monday after she allegedly made an illegal left-hand turn in her vehicle and collided with a Metro Blue Line train. The woman was driving southbound on Long Beach Boulevard at about 1:15 p.m. when she attempted to make an illegal left-hand turn onto Third Street, which is a one-way street, said Long Beach Police Department spokeswoman Nancy Pratt.
A train heading south on the boulevard plowed into the driver's side of her green Toyota sedan. Pratt said the woman suffered major internal injuries from the impact. Capt. Mike DuRee of the Long Beach Fire Department said the victim was unconscious and having trouble breathing when paramedics arrived. She was transported to St. Mary Medical Center, where she died a short time later. Her name was released Monday pending notification of family.
Witnesses said it looked as if the woman had not been paying attention. "I was standing on the corner (of Long Beach Boulevard and Third) talking on my phone when I heard the bang," said witness Andreas Hernandez. "You could feel the force of the impact through the air."
Authorities had closed off Long Beach Boulevard from Broadway to Fourth Street as they investigated the accident scene and passengers on the train were being let off. Signal Hill resident Belinda Maxin was on the train when she felt the the conductor slam on the brakes suddenly. Maxin, like many passengers, had to walk the rest of the way to the bus and train stations on First Street.
The incident was the second involving a Metro train on Monday. A young man apparently struck by a Metro Blue Line train south of downtown Los Angeles was taken to a hospital in critical condition, authorities said. Paramedics sent to Grand Avenue and Washington Boulevard about 8:30 a.m. found the man lying next to the train, which had stopped, said Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department. The man was treated for head, arm and pelvis injuries, Humphrey said.
kelly.puente@presstelegram.com, 562-499-1305. City News Service contributed to this report.
Also:
Long Beach Press-Telegram
Kelly Puente
April 7, 2008
LONG BEACH - A 75-year-old Long Beach woman was killed in a car accident on Monday after she allegedly made an illegal left-hand turn in her vehicle and collided with a Metro Blue Line train. The woman was driving southbound on Long Beach Boulevard at about 1:15 p.m. when she attempted to make an illegal left-hand turn onto Third Street, which is a one-way street, said Long Beach Police Department spokeswoman Nancy Pratt.
A train heading south on the boulevard plowed into the driver's side of her green Toyota sedan. Pratt said the woman suffered major internal injuries from the impact. Capt. Mike DuRee of the Long Beach Fire Department said the victim was unconscious and having trouble breathing when paramedics arrived. She was transported to St. Mary Medical Center, where she died a short time later. Her name was released Monday pending notification of family.
Witnesses said it looked as if the woman had not been paying attention. "I was standing on the corner (of Long Beach Boulevard and Third) talking on my phone when I heard the bang," said witness Andreas Hernandez. "You could feel the force of the impact through the air."
Authorities had closed off Long Beach Boulevard from Broadway to Fourth Street as they investigated the accident scene and passengers on the train were being let off. Signal Hill resident Belinda Maxin was on the train when she felt the the conductor slam on the brakes suddenly. Maxin, like many passengers, had to walk the rest of the way to the bus and train stations on First Street.
The incident was the second involving a Metro train on Monday. A young man apparently struck by a Metro Blue Line train south of downtown Los Angeles was taken to a hospital in critical condition, authorities said. Paramedics sent to Grand Avenue and Washington Boulevard about 8:30 a.m. found the man lying next to the train, which had stopped, said Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department. The man was treated for head, arm and pelvis injuries, Humphrey said.
kelly.puente@presstelegram.com, 562-499-1305. City News Service contributed to this report.
Also:
- LAist reports the young man critically injured a 19-year old Trade Tech student
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Gold Line Hits Car at Avenue 57
1 Hurt When Metro Train Hits Vehicle
KCBS-TV
February 17, 2008
HIGHLAND PARK - A Metro train collided with a vehicle in Highland Park on Sunday night, injuring one man, according to a city fire official.
The crash took place around 8:50 p.m. and involved an MTA Gold Line train. It was reported near North Avenue 57 and Marmion Way, Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department said.
The driver of the vehicle sustained non life-threatening injuries and had to be transported to a hospital. However, no one riding the train was injured.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
Also:
KCBS-TV
February 17, 2008
HIGHLAND PARK - A Metro train collided with a vehicle in Highland Park on Sunday night, injuring one man, according to a city fire official.
The crash took place around 8:50 p.m. and involved an MTA Gold Line train. It was reported near North Avenue 57 and Marmion Way, Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department said.
The driver of the vehicle sustained non life-threatening injuries and had to be transported to a hospital. However, no one riding the train was injured.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
Also:
- Covered on LAFD Alert
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Accident at Crossing with 4-Quad Gates Sends Two to Hospital
2 Injured In Metro Train/Auto Collision
KCBS-TV
January 17, 2008
SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. ― Two people were transported to hospitals complaining of pain after a car struck a Metrolink Gold Line train in South Pasadena, police said Thursday.
The accident occurred near the intersection of Sycamore Avenue and Arroyo Verde Street around 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, when a 1991 Lexus sedan driven by 73-year-old Violet Youssef of Pasadena broadsided a train traveling to Union Station, a South Pasadena Police Department statement said.
The Lexus was traveling eastbound on Arroyo Verde when Youssef drove under a lowered gate crossing arm and struck the right side of the train's front passenger car, the statement said.
The Lexus sustained major damage to its front end and the train, which was traveling about 30 miles per hour, had moderate damage, police said. Youssef was taken to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center complaining of pain in her lower back but her 20-year-old passenger was not injured, the police statement said.
One of the 40 train passengers, a 33-year-old Pasadena man, complained of back pain and was taken to Alhambra Hospital, it said.
KCBS-TV
January 17, 2008
SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. ― Two people were transported to hospitals complaining of pain after a car struck a Metrolink Gold Line train in South Pasadena, police said Thursday.
The accident occurred near the intersection of Sycamore Avenue and Arroyo Verde Street around 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, when a 1991 Lexus sedan driven by 73-year-old Violet Youssef of Pasadena broadsided a train traveling to Union Station, a South Pasadena Police Department statement said.
The Lexus was traveling eastbound on Arroyo Verde when Youssef drove under a lowered gate crossing arm and struck the right side of the train's front passenger car, the statement said.
The Lexus sustained major damage to its front end and the train, which was traveling about 30 miles per hour, had moderate damage, police said. Youssef was taken to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center complaining of pain in her lower back but her 20-year-old passenger was not injured, the police statement said.
One of the 40 train passengers, a 33-year-old Pasadena man, complained of back pain and was taken to Alhambra Hospital, it said.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Blue Line Hits Taxi Injures Two at Hooper
2 Injured After Taxi Collides With Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV
January 11, 2008
LOS ANGELES ― Two people in a taxi were injured in a collision with a Metro Blue Line train Friday night, a fire department official said.
The train collided with a taxi at Washington Boulevard near Hooper Avenue around 9:30 p.m., said d'Lisa Davies of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The victims were treated at the scene of the collision for what were described as minor injuries, Davies said.
No one aboard the train was injured.
Also:
KCBS-TV
January 11, 2008
LOS ANGELES ― Two people in a taxi were injured in a collision with a Metro Blue Line train Friday night, a fire department official said.
The train collided with a taxi at Washington Boulevard near Hooper Avenue around 9:30 p.m., said d'Lisa Davies of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The victims were treated at the scene of the collision for what were described as minor injuries, Davies said.
No one aboard the train was injured.
Also:
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Blue Line Hits Pedestrian at Wardlow Station
Metro Train Hits Pedestrian In Long Beach
KCBS-TV
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH ― A pedestrian crossing a walkway at a Metro station in Long Beach was injured by a Metro Blue Line train Thursday, authorities said.
The accident occurred at the Wardlow Station, near Pacific Place, at 7:44 a.m., Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson said.
A male pedestrian was hit by a train traveling southbound while crossing a walkway, she said.
It was not immediately clear what injuries he suffered but "he was alert when being transported by paramedics to a hospital," Anderson said.
The accident caused service to be delayed for eight minutes, she said.
Also:
Pedestrian struck by Metro train
Long Beach Press-Telegram
By Karen Robes
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH - A pedestrian was hit by a Metro Blue Line train while crossing a walkway Thursday, authorities said.
A man in his 30s was walking at the Wardlow Station near Pacific Place at 7:44 a.m. when he was struck by a train headed south to Willow, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson.
Authorities did not know the man's name, but said he was alert when he was rushed to a nearby hospital.
Anderson said the man complained about pain in his left hip.
No one else was injured in the accident, which caused an eight-minute delay in service, she said.
The 30 or so people who were on the train at the time of the accident were delayed 30 minutes to be interviewed by authorities, Anderson said.
The last pedestrian-related accident at Wardlow Station was reported in February 2000, she said, adding that the accident did not result in a fatality.
KCBS-TV
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH ― A pedestrian crossing a walkway at a Metro station in Long Beach was injured by a Metro Blue Line train Thursday, authorities said.
The accident occurred at the Wardlow Station, near Pacific Place, at 7:44 a.m., Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson said.
A male pedestrian was hit by a train traveling southbound while crossing a walkway, she said.
It was not immediately clear what injuries he suffered but "he was alert when being transported by paramedics to a hospital," Anderson said.
The accident caused service to be delayed for eight minutes, she said.
Also:
Pedestrian struck by Metro train
Long Beach Press-Telegram
By Karen Robes
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH - A pedestrian was hit by a Metro Blue Line train while crossing a walkway Thursday, authorities said.
A man in his 30s was walking at the Wardlow Station near Pacific Place at 7:44 a.m. when he was struck by a train headed south to Willow, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson.
Authorities did not know the man's name, but said he was alert when he was rushed to a nearby hospital.
Anderson said the man complained about pain in his left hip.
No one else was injured in the accident, which caused an eight-minute delay in service, she said.
The 30 or so people who were on the train at the time of the accident were delayed 30 minutes to be interviewed by authorities, Anderson said.
The last pedestrian-related accident at Wardlow Station was reported in February 2000, she said, adding that the accident did not result in a fatality.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Man Trips and is Killed by Blue Line at Hill Street
Man Dies Trying To Outrun Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV
November 27, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A man who ran across the tracks, apparently trying to beat an oncoming Blue Line train, tripped and fell and was run over, the fire department reported.
The man, believed to be in his 50s, died at the scene of the 5:48 p.m. accident at Hill Street and Broadway, said d'Lisa Davies of the city fire department.
He was not immediately identified.
Davies said authorities hoped to have the train moved out of the intersection soon so other trains could resume their regular schedules.
KCBS-TV
November 27, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A man who ran across the tracks, apparently trying to beat an oncoming Blue Line train, tripped and fell and was run over, the fire department reported.
The man, believed to be in his 50s, died at the scene of the 5:48 p.m. accident at Hill Street and Broadway, said d'Lisa Davies of the city fire department.
He was not immediately identified.
Davies said authorities hoped to have the train moved out of the intersection soon so other trains could resume their regular schedules.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Minutes After Killing in Downtown Blue Line Takes Another
Man, 27, Killed By Metro Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV
November 27, 2007
FLORENCE, Calif. ― A 27-year-old man who climbed over a fence onto Metro Blue Line tracks was fatally struck by a southbound train, authorities said.
The accident occurred at 6:13 p.m. Monday, north of the Florence Station just south of Gage Avenue in unincorporated Florence, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority Senior Communications Representative Rick Jager.
The area was fenced, but the man climbed over the fence, he said.
Trains were still running "because we are able to single track through the area," Jager said.
The man's body was still on scene, awaiting the arrival of representatives of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner, he said.
KCBS-TV
November 27, 2007
FLORENCE, Calif. ― A 27-year-old man who climbed over a fence onto Metro Blue Line tracks was fatally struck by a southbound train, authorities said.
The accident occurred at 6:13 p.m. Monday, north of the Florence Station just south of Gage Avenue in unincorporated Florence, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority Senior Communications Representative Rick Jager.
The area was fenced, but the man climbed over the fence, he said.
Trains were still running "because we are able to single track through the area," Jager said.
The man's body was still on scene, awaiting the arrival of representatives of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner, he said.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Gold Line Catches Fire After Hitting Car that Ran Through Crossing Gates
6 Injured When Train, SUV Collide In Highland Park
KCBS-TV
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Authorities report a sport utility vehicle smashed through a crossing gate and broadsided a commuter train during Los Angeles' morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area.
The train caught fire but it was quickly put out.
Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt in the crash but the injuries are not considered life-threatening.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles' Chinatown and suburbs east of the city.
This is the second injury accident involving the Gold Line in less than two weeks.
On September 11th, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
The Gold Line opened in 2003.
Also:
Six hurt in Gold Line collision
Pasadena Star
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES (AP) - A sport utility vehicle broadsided an MTA commuter train during the Friday morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people in the second Gold Line crash in two weeks, authorities said.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area, said David Sotero, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
"The SUV T-boned the train when the crossing gates were down," he said.
It was unclear whether the truck went around the lowered gate or smashed through it, he said. Televised reports showed the crossing gate broken off and lying on the ground. A witness told officials the SUV went around the crossing arm, Los Angeles County sheriff's Lt. Ron Kegel said. About 20 people were on the train, he said.
The train was going about 20 mph when it was struck, Sotero said. Kegel said even at that speed, the operator didn't have time to avoid the vehicle. "The train is several tons. Just the inertia of going even 20 mph, it's going to take some distance before that train can stop," Kegel said.
The train caught fire. It was quickly extinguished but the train was significantly damaged, fire officials said. Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt, but the injuries were not life-threatening, Sotero said.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles and suburbs east of the city.
On Sept. 11, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown - two blocks away from Friday's accident - and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
KCBS-TV
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Authorities report a sport utility vehicle smashed through a crossing gate and broadsided a commuter train during Los Angeles' morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area.
The train caught fire but it was quickly put out.
Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt in the crash but the injuries are not considered life-threatening.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles' Chinatown and suburbs east of the city.
This is the second injury accident involving the Gold Line in less than two weeks.
On September 11th, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
The Gold Line opened in 2003.
Also:
Six hurt in Gold Line collision
Pasadena Star
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES (AP) - A sport utility vehicle broadsided an MTA commuter train during the Friday morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people in the second Gold Line crash in two weeks, authorities said.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area, said David Sotero, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
"The SUV T-boned the train when the crossing gates were down," he said.
It was unclear whether the truck went around the lowered gate or smashed through it, he said. Televised reports showed the crossing gate broken off and lying on the ground. A witness told officials the SUV went around the crossing arm, Los Angeles County sheriff's Lt. Ron Kegel said. About 20 people were on the train, he said.
The train was going about 20 mph when it was struck, Sotero said. Kegel said even at that speed, the operator didn't have time to avoid the vehicle. "The train is several tons. Just the inertia of going even 20 mph, it's going to take some distance before that train can stop," Kegel said.
The train caught fire. It was quickly extinguished but the train was significantly damaged, fire officials said. Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt, but the injuries were not life-threatening, Sotero said.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles and suburbs east of the city.
On Sept. 11, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown - two blocks away from Friday's accident - and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Blue Line Hits Car & Injures 4 in Downtown LA
4 Injured When Metro Blue Line Train, Car Collide
KCBS-TV
September 17, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Four people suffered minor injuries Monday when a vehicle and a Metro Blue Line train collided near downtown Los Angeles, officials said.
Paramedics were sent to Flower Street and Washington Boulevard at 11:10 a.m., Diana Igawa of the Los Angeles Fire Department said.
No one on the train was injured, Igawa said.
The circumstances of the collision were under investigation.
KCBS-TV
September 17, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Four people suffered minor injuries Monday when a vehicle and a Metro Blue Line train collided near downtown Los Angeles, officials said.
Paramedics were sent to Flower Street and Washington Boulevard at 11:10 a.m., Diana Igawa of the Los Angeles Fire Department said.
No one on the train was injured, Igawa said.
The circumstances of the collision were under investigation.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Gold Line Going 15 mph Injures 7, Crushes F-150 Like a Potato Chip Bag & Traps Motorist
7 hurt when Gold Line train hits truck at Highland Park crossing
Los Angeles Times
By Andrew Blankstein and Tami Abdollah
September 12, 2007
A Gold Line light-rail train carrying dozens of people hit a pickup during rush hour Tuesday morning in Highland Park, injuring seven people, authorities said.
The crash occurred shortly before 8 a.m. at a crossing at Avenue 55 and Marmion Way.
The 35-year-old driver of the pickup truck was taken to Huntington Hospital in Pasadena with unspecified injuries, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lt. Suzan Young said.
The driver was awake and alert but was considered in critical condition because of the potential for internal injuries, a Fire Department official said.
The truck was severely damaged.
Six people on the train – including the operator and a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy providing security on the train – were being treated for minor neck and back injuries, Young said.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said the southbound train was carrying as many as 60 people.
A witness told investigators the pickup driver tried to beat the train, which was passing through a crossing that has lights and bells but no gates, MTA spokesman Jose Ubaldo said.
“Either he disregarded the signals – and there are plenty going along that Gold Line, so he had to disregard it – or he wasn’t paying attention,” said d’Lisa Davies, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles City Fire Department.
She said she did not know whether all the signals were working Tuesday morning.
Among the injured passengers was a 52-year-old woman who jumped off the train after the crash and broke one of her legs.
MTA officials said trains usually travel 15 mph to 20 mph through the area, a narrow stretch of track that is blocks from the Highland Park station.
The 14-mile Gold Line, which opened in 2003, connects Pasadena and Union Station in downtown Los Angeles.
About 20,000 people travel the route daily. Each car holds up to 144 passengers and costs $2.36 million.
Shuttle buses took passengers to stations south and north of the accident.
Heavy equipment was brought in to move the train.
andrew.blankstein@latimes.com
tami.abdollah@latimes.com
Also:
7 Injured When Gold Line Train, Truck Collide
KCBS-TV
September 11, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Seven people were injured today, one of them critically, when a Metro Gold Line train collided with a pickup truck in the Highland Park area, authorities said.
The train was southbound when it collided with the pickup at 7:54 a.m. in the 100 block of North Avenue 55, said Metro's Jose Ubaldo. According to a witness, the truck may have run a red light, he said.
Firefighters freed the driver of the pickup, and paramedics took him to a hospital in critical condition, said d'Lisa Davies of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
A half-dozen people on the train -- four passengers, the train's operator and a sheriff's deputy -- complained of neck and back pain, Ubaldo said.
Rail service was interrupted until 1:30 p.m., he said.
Also:
Los Angeles Times
By Andrew Blankstein and Tami Abdollah
September 12, 2007
A Gold Line light-rail train carrying dozens of people hit a pickup during rush hour Tuesday morning in Highland Park, injuring seven people, authorities said.
The crash occurred shortly before 8 a.m. at a crossing at Avenue 55 and Marmion Way.
The 35-year-old driver of the pickup truck was taken to Huntington Hospital in Pasadena with unspecified injuries, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lt. Suzan Young said.
The driver was awake and alert but was considered in critical condition because of the potential for internal injuries, a Fire Department official said.
The truck was severely damaged.
Six people on the train – including the operator and a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy providing security on the train – were being treated for minor neck and back injuries, Young said.
Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said the southbound train was carrying as many as 60 people.
A witness told investigators the pickup driver tried to beat the train, which was passing through a crossing that has lights and bells but no gates, MTA spokesman Jose Ubaldo said.
“Either he disregarded the signals – and there are plenty going along that Gold Line, so he had to disregard it – or he wasn’t paying attention,” said d’Lisa Davies, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles City Fire Department.
She said she did not know whether all the signals were working Tuesday morning.
Among the injured passengers was a 52-year-old woman who jumped off the train after the crash and broke one of her legs.
MTA officials said trains usually travel 15 mph to 20 mph through the area, a narrow stretch of track that is blocks from the Highland Park station.
The 14-mile Gold Line, which opened in 2003, connects Pasadena and Union Station in downtown Los Angeles.
About 20,000 people travel the route daily. Each car holds up to 144 passengers and costs $2.36 million.
Shuttle buses took passengers to stations south and north of the accident.
Heavy equipment was brought in to move the train.
andrew.blankstein@latimes.com
tami.abdollah@latimes.com
Also:
7 Injured When Gold Line Train, Truck Collide
KCBS-TV
September 11, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Seven people were injured today, one of them critically, when a Metro Gold Line train collided with a pickup truck in the Highland Park area, authorities said.
The train was southbound when it collided with the pickup at 7:54 a.m. in the 100 block of North Avenue 55, said Metro's Jose Ubaldo. According to a witness, the truck may have run a red light, he said.
Firefighters freed the driver of the pickup, and paramedics took him to a hospital in critical condition, said d'Lisa Davies of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
A half-dozen people on the train -- four passengers, the train's operator and a sheriff's deputy -- complained of neck and back pain, Ubaldo said.
Rail service was interrupted until 1:30 p.m., he said.
Also:
- LAFD Blog
- LAFD_Alert
- Pictures of the accident in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune
Monday, August 27, 2007
Blue Line Hits Truck and Injures 6 in Downtown LA
6 Injured When Truck, Blue Line Train Collide
KCBS-TV
August 27, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Six people were injured when a truck and a Metro Blue Line train collided south of downtown late Monday, affecting rail travel between Los Angeles and Long Beach, authorities said.
The accident took place at 5:26 p.m. at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Maple Avenue, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's Helen Gilstrap.
At least three people were taken to medical centers, he said, but an MTA official described their injuries as minor.
Rail travel between Los Angeles and Long Beach was affected by the collision, Gilstrap said. A bus bridge will be established between the Grand Avenue and San Pedro Street stations, she said.
Gilstrap said it was unclear how long the service would be interrupted.
KCBS-TV
August 27, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Six people were injured when a truck and a Metro Blue Line train collided south of downtown late Monday, affecting rail travel between Los Angeles and Long Beach, authorities said.
The accident took place at 5:26 p.m. at the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Maple Avenue, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's Helen Gilstrap.
At least three people were taken to medical centers, he said, but an MTA official described their injuries as minor.
Rail travel between Los Angeles and Long Beach was affected by the collision, Gilstrap said. A bus bridge will be established between the Grand Avenue and San Pedro Street stations, she said.
Gilstrap said it was unclear how long the service would be interrupted.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Blue Line Hits Pick-Up at 12th/Flower
Motorist Injured In Collision With Metro Train
KCBS-TV
July 18, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A motorist was slightly injured Wednesday in a collision between a pickup truck and a Metro Blue Line train in downtown Los Angeles, authorities said.
The accident occurred shortly before 6 a.m. at Flower and 12th streets, said Los Angeles police Officer Sara Faden.
No one was hurt on the train, which stopped at the location. The driver of the pickup was taken to a hospital for treat
KCBS-TV
July 18, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A motorist was slightly injured Wednesday in a collision between a pickup truck and a Metro Blue Line train in downtown Los Angeles, authorities said.
The accident occurred shortly before 6 a.m. at Flower and 12th streets, said Los Angeles police Officer Sara Faden.
No one was hurt on the train, which stopped at the location. The driver of the pickup was taken to a hospital for treat
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Blue Line Injures Elderly Motorist at Venice
Man, 71, Injured When Car, Blue Line Train Collide
KCBS-TV
June 14, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A Metro Blue Line train and a vehicle collided Thursday near downtown Los Angeles, slightly injuring the 71-year-old man driving the vehicle, according to a fire official.
The collision was reported at 8:38 a.m. near Venice Boulevard and South Flower Street, according to Ron Myers of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The driver of the vehicle was treated at the scene for minor arm pains, Myers said.
KCBS-TV
June 14, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A Metro Blue Line train and a vehicle collided Thursday near downtown Los Angeles, slightly injuring the 71-year-old man driving the vehicle, according to a fire official.
The collision was reported at 8:38 a.m. near Venice Boulevard and South Flower Street, according to Ron Myers of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The driver of the vehicle was treated at the scene for minor arm pains, Myers said.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Blue Line Kills 20 year old on Washington Blvd
Blue Line Train Involved in Fatality
20-year-old Female Run Over
KABC-TV
April 14, 2007
LOS ANGELES - A young woman was fatally run over by a Blue Line train on the south side of downtown Saturday, a fire official said.
Paramedics were sent to the 1800 block of South San Pedro Street at 12:28 p.m., said Los Angeles city fire spokesperson d'Lisa Davies.
The Long Beach-bound light-rail train was unable to stop before striking 20-year-old Maxmiliana Gomez. The Blue Line driver stated that a group of three -- two males and Gomez -- attempted to run across the tracks in front of the train. The young woman was unsuccessful in her attempt and she was declared dead at the scene.
"Maxi Force Airbags" were used to extricate the body from underneath the train, which took an hour.
The accident delayed service on the downtown-to-Long-Beach line.
20-year-old Female Run Over
KABC-TV
April 14, 2007
LOS ANGELES - A young woman was fatally run over by a Blue Line train on the south side of downtown Saturday, a fire official said.
Paramedics were sent to the 1800 block of South San Pedro Street at 12:28 p.m., said Los Angeles city fire spokesperson d'Lisa Davies.
The Long Beach-bound light-rail train was unable to stop before striking 20-year-old Maxmiliana Gomez. The Blue Line driver stated that a group of three -- two males and Gomez -- attempted to run across the tracks in front of the train. The young woman was unsuccessful in her attempt and she was declared dead at the scene.
"Maxi Force Airbags" were used to extricate the body from underneath the train, which took an hour.
The accident delayed service on the downtown-to-Long-Beach line.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Blue Line Totals SUV in Long Beach
Blue Line collides with SUV
Long Beach Press-Telegram
By Tomio Geron
April 13, 2007
An SUV traveling southbound on Long Beach Boulevard made a wrong-way turn onto Seventh Street in front of a Metro train, which totaled the SUV and resulted in severe damage to the front of the train. A passenger in the SUV was treated at the scene.
The accident occurred when the driver of a silver Ford Expedition traveling southbound on Long Beach Boulevard made a wrong turn heading east onto westbound Seventh Street.
The southbound train, with about 75 passengers aboard, struck the SUV and dragged it a short distance through the intersection before stopping.
The driver of the SUV was uninjured, but was taken to a hospital as a precaution, said Will Nash, a Long Beach Fire Department spokesman.
A passenger in the vehicle was treated and released at the scene.
There were no injuries reported among the train riders, said Metro spokesman Jose Ubaldo.
Long Beach Boulevard was closed to traffic for several hours between Sixth and Eighth streets while emergency crews responded to the scene and removed the SUV, which was stuck to the front of the train.
The Blue Line was diverted around the damaged train and continued to operate in both directions. Ubaldo said the damaged train would be taken to a yard to be inspected or repaired. Nash said he did not know why the driver tried to make the illegal turn.
The SUV had Pennsylvania license plates, Nash said.
Trenton Barnett, 31, of Long Beach, was eating breakfast in a McDonald's restaurant that is directly in front of where the accident occurred.
"I heard screaming, then I saw the train was dragging the truck to a complete stop," Barnett said.
Long Beach Press-Telegram
By Tomio Geron
April 13, 2007
An SUV traveling southbound on Long Beach Boulevard made a wrong-way turn onto Seventh Street in front of a Metro train, which totaled the SUV and resulted in severe damage to the front of the train. A passenger in the SUV was treated at the scene.
The accident occurred when the driver of a silver Ford Expedition traveling southbound on Long Beach Boulevard made a wrong turn heading east onto westbound Seventh Street.
The southbound train, with about 75 passengers aboard, struck the SUV and dragged it a short distance through the intersection before stopping.
The driver of the SUV was uninjured, but was taken to a hospital as a precaution, said Will Nash, a Long Beach Fire Department spokesman.
A passenger in the vehicle was treated and released at the scene.
There were no injuries reported among the train riders, said Metro spokesman Jose Ubaldo.
Long Beach Boulevard was closed to traffic for several hours between Sixth and Eighth streets while emergency crews responded to the scene and removed the SUV, which was stuck to the front of the train.
The Blue Line was diverted around the damaged train and continued to operate in both directions. Ubaldo said the damaged train would be taken to a yard to be inspected or repaired. Nash said he did not know why the driver tried to make the illegal turn.
The SUV had Pennsylvania license plates, Nash said.
Trenton Barnett, 31, of Long Beach, was eating breakfast in a McDonald's restaurant that is directly in front of where the accident occurred.
"I heard screaming, then I saw the train was dragging the truck to a complete stop," Barnett said.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Blue Line Hits Woman in Compton
Woman Dashes Across Tracks, Hit By Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV
March 2, 2007
COMPTON, Calif. ― A woman who was struck by a Metro Blue Line train in Compton was hospitalized in good condition, a sheriff's sergeant said.
The accident occurred about 10:50 p.m. Thursday at the Alondra Boulevard grade crossing, said Sgt. Judson Doyle of the sheriff's Compton station.
"According to eyewitnesses, she just appeared to be in a hurry," he said. "Luckily, the train just barely clipped her."
The woman was taken to Long Beach Memorial Medical Center to be treated for what Doyle described as minor leg injuries.
The woman was crossing from east to west when she was struck by a southbound train, he said. The grade crossing is controlled by flashing lights and barrier arms.
It was unclear if the woman would be cited in connection with the accident, pending the outcome an investigation, Doyle said.
KCBS-TV
March 2, 2007
COMPTON, Calif. ― A woman who was struck by a Metro Blue Line train in Compton was hospitalized in good condition, a sheriff's sergeant said.
The accident occurred about 10:50 p.m. Thursday at the Alondra Boulevard grade crossing, said Sgt. Judson Doyle of the sheriff's Compton station.
"According to eyewitnesses, she just appeared to be in a hurry," he said. "Luckily, the train just barely clipped her."
The woman was taken to Long Beach Memorial Medical Center to be treated for what Doyle described as minor leg injuries.
The woman was crossing from east to west when she was struck by a southbound train, he said. The grade crossing is controlled by flashing lights and barrier arms.
It was unclear if the woman would be cited in connection with the accident, pending the outcome an investigation, Doyle said.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Man Hit by Blue Line Fighting for His Life
Man struck, killed by Metro train
Los Angeles Times
February 05, 2007
A man died Sunday after stepping in front of a Metro Blue Line commuter train in South Los Angeles.
The unidentified man, described as about 45 years old, appeared to intentionally move into the path of the northbound train as it approached 48th Place near Long Beach Avenue, police said. Witnesses said the man was walking near the tracks about 4:30 p.m. when he ducked under a guardrail and stood on the tracks, facing the train, according to LAPD Officer Martha Garcia.
Rescuers got the victim out from under the train. He had suffered massive head injuries, said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey. The man died at County-USC Medical Center. The 57-year-old train operator complained of illness and was treated at the scene. No passengers were hurt.
Rescuers Extricate Man From Underneath Train Victim Reportedly In Critical Condition
KCBS-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, according to Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels. The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County-USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Man Struck by Blue Line Train
KABC-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES -- A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, said Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels.
The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County- USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Also:
Los Angeles Times
February 05, 2007
A man died Sunday after stepping in front of a Metro Blue Line commuter train in South Los Angeles.
The unidentified man, described as about 45 years old, appeared to intentionally move into the path of the northbound train as it approached 48th Place near Long Beach Avenue, police said. Witnesses said the man was walking near the tracks about 4:30 p.m. when he ducked under a guardrail and stood on the tracks, facing the train, according to LAPD Officer Martha Garcia.
Rescuers got the victim out from under the train. He had suffered massive head injuries, said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey. The man died at County-USC Medical Center. The 57-year-old train operator complained of illness and was treated at the scene. No passengers were hurt.
Rescuers Extricate Man From Underneath Train Victim Reportedly In Critical Condition
KCBS-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, according to Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels. The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County-USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Man Struck by Blue Line Train
KABC-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES -- A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, said Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels.
The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County- USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Also:
- LAFD_Alerts man had severe head trauma
Thursday, January 25, 2007
14 Year Old Boy Killed by Blue Line Carrying His Own Sister
Boy, 14, killed by train is mourned
Los Angeles Times
By Angie Green
January 27, 2007
A day after 14-year-old Lavert Baker Jr. lost his life after being struck by a Metro Blue Line commuter train, his family members grappled with whether his loss could have been avoided.
“He was my heart,” his father, Lavert Baker Sr., said Friday. “I lost a big part of my heart yesterday.”
The teenager was hit Thursday afternoon in Watts as he walked home from school. Witnesses said he was in the middle of the train tracks when warning lights started blinking and the guard gates lowered. A spokesperson for the L.A. County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the train, said an investigation is underway.
By chance, Lavert’s 15-year-old sister, Moneisha, was a passenger on the train but did not learn that it was her brother who had been struck until she arrived at a relative’s home in East Los Angeles. Of 13 siblings, Lavert and Moneisha shared a special bond because of their closeness in age, the elder Baker said.
“The two were like this,” he said, holding his index and middle fingers together.
Lavert, an eighth-grader at Charles R. Drew Middle School, was crossing the four-lane tracks at the intersection of East 92nd Street and Graham Avenue when, his father said, he was “blindsided.” Baker said witnesses told him the guard gates were up before his son entered the train right-of-way about 3:45 p.m.
Earlier reports said he was riding a scooter, but an eyewitness said the scooter was brought to the scene by another neighbor boy after the accident.
Blanca Mendoza, 37, was heading east on 92nd Street and saw Baker standing in the middle of the four-lane tracks that run south and north. Mendoza said Friday in an interview that there was no scooter near him.
“He was in the middle when the lights started blinking and the arms went down,” she said. She heard the train’s horn three times and saw the train slow as it approached the boy, who turned to look just before the train hit him.
The teenager took the same route every day, his father said. The elder Baker was at his home less than a mile from the crossing when Mendoza and another resident rushed to tell him about the accident.
Baker, 51, found his son on the ground as a crowd began to gather. He rushed to his side and held him despite officials’ asking him to step aside. Lavert was taken to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood and was pronounced dead at 4:11 p.m., said Lt. David Smith of the L.A. County coroner’s office.
The younger Baker, who was nicknamed “Vert Vert,” was described as “comical” by his mother, Marvella Graves, and “full of joy” by his father.
At the accident scene, Lavert’s father set up memorial candles in the shape of a “V” Thursday night.
Friends and family on Friday described Lavert as a well-liked and ambitious teen who was a video game fanatic and liked to play football and basketball. He wanted to be an electrician and go to college.
“He always showed me he wanted to go to college,” Baker said. “He would say, ‘You just watch, Dad, I’m going to be the first one.’ ”
A constant stream of friends and family members stopped by the Grape Street residence Friday to offer their condolences.
To help raise funds for memorial services, the 92nd Street Elementary School is holding a car wash today from 9 a.m. to noon. On Friday afternoon, students held posters they made with colored markers advertising the event.
Lavert was the second fatality this month involving a Metro Blue Line commuter train. On Jan. 5, a male was struck by a train in the Long Beach area, said Helen Gilstrap, an MTA spokeswoman.
The Metro Blue Line, L.A.’s first light-rail transit system, runs from 7th Street in downtown L.A. through Vernon, Huntington Park, South Gate, Watts, Compton and Carson to downtown Long Beach. It carries about 63,000 passengers daily and has a 55 mph maximum allowable speed.
From June 2005 to June 2006, 27 people were injured and five were killed in Blue Line accidents, Gilstrap said. The commuter trains run every five minutes from 3 to 7 p.m. at the intersection where Lavert was struck.
Gilstrap said the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the MTA are investigating Lavert’s death. She could not answer specific questions about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“Everything is under investigation at this time,” Gilstrap said. “The results will take two weeks to give you a definitive answer.”
angie.green@latimes.com
Also:
Los Angeles Times
By Angie Green
January 27, 2007
A day after 14-year-old Lavert Baker Jr. lost his life after being struck by a Metro Blue Line commuter train, his family members grappled with whether his loss could have been avoided.
“He was my heart,” his father, Lavert Baker Sr., said Friday. “I lost a big part of my heart yesterday.”
The teenager was hit Thursday afternoon in Watts as he walked home from school. Witnesses said he was in the middle of the train tracks when warning lights started blinking and the guard gates lowered. A spokesperson for the L.A. County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the train, said an investigation is underway.
By chance, Lavert’s 15-year-old sister, Moneisha, was a passenger on the train but did not learn that it was her brother who had been struck until she arrived at a relative’s home in East Los Angeles. Of 13 siblings, Lavert and Moneisha shared a special bond because of their closeness in age, the elder Baker said.
“The two were like this,” he said, holding his index and middle fingers together.
Lavert, an eighth-grader at Charles R. Drew Middle School, was crossing the four-lane tracks at the intersection of East 92nd Street and Graham Avenue when, his father said, he was “blindsided.” Baker said witnesses told him the guard gates were up before his son entered the train right-of-way about 3:45 p.m.
Earlier reports said he was riding a scooter, but an eyewitness said the scooter was brought to the scene by another neighbor boy after the accident.
Blanca Mendoza, 37, was heading east on 92nd Street and saw Baker standing in the middle of the four-lane tracks that run south and north. Mendoza said Friday in an interview that there was no scooter near him.
“He was in the middle when the lights started blinking and the arms went down,” she said. She heard the train’s horn three times and saw the train slow as it approached the boy, who turned to look just before the train hit him.
The teenager took the same route every day, his father said. The elder Baker was at his home less than a mile from the crossing when Mendoza and another resident rushed to tell him about the accident.
Baker, 51, found his son on the ground as a crowd began to gather. He rushed to his side and held him despite officials’ asking him to step aside. Lavert was taken to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood and was pronounced dead at 4:11 p.m., said Lt. David Smith of the L.A. County coroner’s office.
The younger Baker, who was nicknamed “Vert Vert,” was described as “comical” by his mother, Marvella Graves, and “full of joy” by his father.
At the accident scene, Lavert’s father set up memorial candles in the shape of a “V” Thursday night.
Friends and family on Friday described Lavert as a well-liked and ambitious teen who was a video game fanatic and liked to play football and basketball. He wanted to be an electrician and go to college.
“He always showed me he wanted to go to college,” Baker said. “He would say, ‘You just watch, Dad, I’m going to be the first one.’ ”
A constant stream of friends and family members stopped by the Grape Street residence Friday to offer their condolences.
To help raise funds for memorial services, the 92nd Street Elementary School is holding a car wash today from 9 a.m. to noon. On Friday afternoon, students held posters they made with colored markers advertising the event.
Lavert was the second fatality this month involving a Metro Blue Line commuter train. On Jan. 5, a male was struck by a train in the Long Beach area, said Helen Gilstrap, an MTA spokeswoman.
The Metro Blue Line, L.A.’s first light-rail transit system, runs from 7th Street in downtown L.A. through Vernon, Huntington Park, South Gate, Watts, Compton and Carson to downtown Long Beach. It carries about 63,000 passengers daily and has a 55 mph maximum allowable speed.
From June 2005 to June 2006, 27 people were injured and five were killed in Blue Line accidents, Gilstrap said. The commuter trains run every five minutes from 3 to 7 p.m. at the intersection where Lavert was struck.
Gilstrap said the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the MTA are investigating Lavert’s death. She could not answer specific questions about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“Everything is under investigation at this time,” Gilstrap said. “The results will take two weeks to give you a definitive answer.”
angie.green@latimes.com
Also:
Friday, January 5, 2007
Man Killed by Blue Line in North Long Beach
Man hit, killed by commuter train
Los Angeles Times
January 06, 2007
A pedestrian was struck and killed by a Blue Line commuter train Friday afternoon, a transit official said.
The incident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the southbound train approached Spring Street at Del Mar Avenue, said Helen Gilstrap, a spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The male victim was not identified.
The Blue Line was closed for more than two hours while police investigated the incident.
Pedestrian Struck, Killed By Train In Long Beach
KCBS-TV
January 5, 2007
LONG BEACH, Calif. ― A pedestrian was fatally struck by a southbound Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach late Friday.
The collision happened at 4:35 p.m. at Spring Street and Del Mar Avenue, MTA spokeswoman Helen Gilstrap said.
Kenneth W. Strong, 57, walked in front of the train, said Gilstrap.
Gilstrap said the MTA established a bus "bridge" between Willow and Wardlow Road to take the passengers to their destinations.
"People will not be stranded," Gilstrap said, although delays of two to three hours were expected.
Los Angeles Times
January 06, 2007
A pedestrian was struck and killed by a Blue Line commuter train Friday afternoon, a transit official said.
The incident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the southbound train approached Spring Street at Del Mar Avenue, said Helen Gilstrap, a spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The male victim was not identified.
The Blue Line was closed for more than two hours while police investigated the incident.
Pedestrian Struck, Killed By Train In Long Beach
KCBS-TV
January 5, 2007
LONG BEACH, Calif. ― A pedestrian was fatally struck by a southbound Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach late Friday.
The collision happened at 4:35 p.m. at Spring Street and Del Mar Avenue, MTA spokeswoman Helen Gilstrap said.
Kenneth W. Strong, 57, walked in front of the train, said Gilstrap.
Gilstrap said the MTA established a bus "bridge" between Willow and Wardlow Road to take the passengers to their destinations.
"People will not be stranded," Gilstrap said, although delays of two to three hours were expected.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Friday, December 22, 2006
Blue Line Hits Fire Truck at Central
11 taken to hospitals after Blue Line train hits firetruck
About 250 rush-hour commuters were aboard when accident occurred at Washington and Central, a 'notorious bad intersection'
Los Angeles Times
By Jean Guccione
December 23, 2006
Los Angeles, CA - Ten passengers and a firefighter were taken to hospitals for minor injuries Friday evening when a Blue Line commuter train struck a firetruck on an emergency call near downtown Los Angeles, authorities said.
The ladder truck and its crew were crossing Washington Boulevard at Central Avenue about 5 p.m. when the accident occurred, police and fire officials said.
"It looks like a big oops," said Los Angeles Police Sgt. Jeff Tepich, who was on the scene. "If [the train] is pulling a lot of weight even at a slow speed it's hard to stop."
The six-car train, which was carrying passengers from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach, struck the center of the ladder truck and derailed, blocking both tracks. The truck was on its way to a small fire; a second engine was sent in its place.
A spokesman for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority said the train operator had a green light when she proceeded into the intersection and did not see or hear the firetruck, which had its lights and sirens on.
"She said she did not hear the firetruck, but when she saw it in the intersection she used the emergency brake," spokesman Dave Sotero said.
"It is a notorious bad intersection," Assistant Fire Chief Ralph M. Terrazas said.
In response to several fatal collisions along the Blue Line route, flashing yellow signs have been added to warn motorists turning right on Washington to watch for the crossing train. No such warnings have been installed on Central.
The collision is under investigation, but Tepich said the train has the right of way, especially when the light is red.
"Our policy is to come to a complete stop at all red lights and stop signs before entering an intersection," Terrazas said.
The train, which was traveling in an area with a speed limit of 35 mph, was carrying about 250 rush-hour commuters, he said. City Fire Department personnel said they assessed about 25 passengers for mostly minor injuries at the scene.
The injured firefighter was working as the apparatus operator, steering the long truck from the rear. After the crash, he complained of back and neck pain, Terrazas said.
The tracks were closed in both directions for more than three hours while officials investigated the crash and removed debris.
The firetruck was towed, and the train, with a crushed front windshield, was pushed back onto the tracks.
Dozens of commuters walked down Central Avenue in the dark between the San Pedro and Washington stations, where transit service began and ended. Additional buses were added to bridge the service interruption, Sotero said.
Under MTA policy, the driver was required to be tested for possible drug and alcohol use.
L.A. Firetruck Collides With Train, Slightly Injuring at Least 10
Associated Press
December 22, 2006
LOS ANGELES -- A collision between a Blue Line train and a Los Angeles Fire Department ladder truck left a firefighter and several train riders with minor injuries Saturday.
It was unclear if the damage from Friday's 5:04 p.m. accident at Central Avenue and Washington Boulevard put the train out of commission, but it was was knocked off its tracks.
The train hit the ladder truck broadside, close to coupling joint where the tractors attaches to the rest of the rig.
Fire officials did not say where the truck was going, or if the lights and siren were activated.
Dave Sotero of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the Blue Line, said the train's operator had a green signal to proceed through the intersection and did not hear a siren. She did see its emergency lights, he said.
Sotero said the maximum speed of the Blue Line trains in that area is 35 mph. The cause of the collision was still under investigation, he said.
Ten people on the downtown-to-Long-Beach commuter train complained of injuries and were taken to hospitals to be checked out for mostly minor injuries, officials said. One person was reported to have been seriously injured. The extent of injuries to the firefighter were not disclosed.
Damage estimates for the train and truck were unavailable.
Also:
About 250 rush-hour commuters were aboard when accident occurred at Washington and Central, a 'notorious bad intersection'
Los Angeles Times
By Jean Guccione
December 23, 2006
Los Angeles, CA - Ten passengers and a firefighter were taken to hospitals for minor injuries Friday evening when a Blue Line commuter train struck a firetruck on an emergency call near downtown Los Angeles, authorities said.
The ladder truck and its crew were crossing Washington Boulevard at Central Avenue about 5 p.m. when the accident occurred, police and fire officials said.
"It looks like a big oops," said Los Angeles Police Sgt. Jeff Tepich, who was on the scene. "If [the train] is pulling a lot of weight even at a slow speed it's hard to stop."
The six-car train, which was carrying passengers from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach, struck the center of the ladder truck and derailed, blocking both tracks. The truck was on its way to a small fire; a second engine was sent in its place.
A spokesman for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority said the train operator had a green light when she proceeded into the intersection and did not see or hear the firetruck, which had its lights and sirens on.
"She said she did not hear the firetruck, but when she saw it in the intersection she used the emergency brake," spokesman Dave Sotero said.
"It is a notorious bad intersection," Assistant Fire Chief Ralph M. Terrazas said.
In response to several fatal collisions along the Blue Line route, flashing yellow signs have been added to warn motorists turning right on Washington to watch for the crossing train. No such warnings have been installed on Central.
The collision is under investigation, but Tepich said the train has the right of way, especially when the light is red.
"Our policy is to come to a complete stop at all red lights and stop signs before entering an intersection," Terrazas said.
The train, which was traveling in an area with a speed limit of 35 mph, was carrying about 250 rush-hour commuters, he said. City Fire Department personnel said they assessed about 25 passengers for mostly minor injuries at the scene.
The injured firefighter was working as the apparatus operator, steering the long truck from the rear. After the crash, he complained of back and neck pain, Terrazas said.
The tracks were closed in both directions for more than three hours while officials investigated the crash and removed debris.
The firetruck was towed, and the train, with a crushed front windshield, was pushed back onto the tracks.
Dozens of commuters walked down Central Avenue in the dark between the San Pedro and Washington stations, where transit service began and ended. Additional buses were added to bridge the service interruption, Sotero said.
Under MTA policy, the driver was required to be tested for possible drug and alcohol use.
L.A. Firetruck Collides With Train, Slightly Injuring at Least 10
Associated Press
December 22, 2006
LOS ANGELES -- A collision between a Blue Line train and a Los Angeles Fire Department ladder truck left a firefighter and several train riders with minor injuries Saturday.
It was unclear if the damage from Friday's 5:04 p.m. accident at Central Avenue and Washington Boulevard put the train out of commission, but it was was knocked off its tracks.
The train hit the ladder truck broadside, close to coupling joint where the tractors attaches to the rest of the rig.
Fire officials did not say where the truck was going, or if the lights and siren were activated.
Dave Sotero of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the Blue Line, said the train's operator had a green signal to proceed through the intersection and did not hear a siren. She did see its emergency lights, he said.
Sotero said the maximum speed of the Blue Line trains in that area is 35 mph. The cause of the collision was still under investigation, he said.
Ten people on the downtown-to-Long-Beach commuter train complained of injuries and were taken to hospitals to be checked out for mostly minor injuries, officials said. One person was reported to have been seriously injured. The extent of injuries to the firefighter were not disclosed.
Damage estimates for the train and truck were unavailable.
Also:
- Footage from KCBS
- Covered on LAFD Blog
- Pictures on LAFD Flickr page
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Blue Line Hits Vehicle at 18th & Flower
Metro Rail Train, Vehicle Collide Downtown
KCBS-TV
December 18, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― No one was injured Sunday night when a Metro Rail train and a vehicle collided in downtown Los Angeles, police said.
The accident happened about 8:45 p.m. on South Flower Street at West 18th Street, said LAPD Officer Marta Garcia of Media Relations.
The train runs north and south along Flower, Garcia said.
No one was injured, she said.
The cause of the crash was not immediately known.
KCBS-TV
December 18, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― No one was injured Sunday night when a Metro Rail train and a vehicle collided in downtown Los Angeles, police said.
The accident happened about 8:45 p.m. on South Flower Street at West 18th Street, said LAPD Officer Marta Garcia of Media Relations.
The train runs north and south along Flower, Garcia said.
No one was injured, she said.
The cause of the crash was not immediately known.
Monday, November 6, 2006
Blue Line Kills Man at Vernon Station
Man Killed By MTA Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV (with footage)
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train struck and killed a man on Monday night. According to police, he was trying to outrun the train.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses said that the man ran around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train struck the man as it was slowing down, according to Gayle Anderson of the MTA. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident.
The Blue Line operated only on one track Monday night for two hours following the accident, Anderson said.
Police: Man Was Killed Trying To Outrun Metro Train
KNBC-TV
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES -- A man was killed when he tried to outrun an oncoming Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, authorities said Tuesday.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. Monday at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses told investigators that the man had run around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train, which travels at 50 mph, struck the man as it was in the process of slowing down, said MTA spokeswoman Gayle Anderson. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident, she said.
MTA officials shut down the track where the accident occurred for about two hours afterward, Anderson said.
City News Service contributed to this report.
KCBS-TV (with footage)
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train struck and killed a man on Monday night. According to police, he was trying to outrun the train.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses said that the man ran around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train struck the man as it was slowing down, according to Gayle Anderson of the MTA. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident.
The Blue Line operated only on one track Monday night for two hours following the accident, Anderson said.
Police: Man Was Killed Trying To Outrun Metro Train
KNBC-TV
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES -- A man was killed when he tried to outrun an oncoming Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, authorities said Tuesday.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. Monday at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses told investigators that the man had run around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train, which travels at 50 mph, struck the man as it was in the process of slowing down, said MTA spokeswoman Gayle Anderson. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident, she said.
MTA officials shut down the track where the accident occurred for about two hours afterward, Anderson said.
City News Service contributed to this report.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Blue Line Kills 17 and 27 Year Old and Leaves 7 Year Old in Critical Condition
2 Killed, 2 Injured in Car Hit by Train
Los Angeles Times
By Nancy Cleeland
August 21, 2006
A man and his sister were killed and his 7-year-old son was critically injured Sunday morning when the man turned their car in front of a Blue Line train near downtown Los Angeles and the vehicle was dragged half a block along the tracks, police said.
The siblings’ grandmother, 68, who was in the back seat, was being treated at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center for chest pains, said Det. Josephine Mapson of the Los Angeles Police Department.
The driver was identified as Cesar Herrera, 27, of Los Angeles. His sister, Maria A. Herrera, was 17. Police did not identify the survivors.
Six of the 92 passengers on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority train were treated for minor injuries and released, Mapson said.
Both the car and the train, which runs at street level along the center of Washington Boulevard, were traveling east. The train’s operator told police that he saw a maroon Mazda stopped in the left-turn lane ahead of him at the intersection of Maple Avenue. Just as the train was about to pass, the traffic light turned green for through traffic but the left-turn arrow remained red.
Nevertheless, the Mazda driver turned left in front of the train, and the car was struck and pushed 162 feet east.
Mapson said the driver may have misread the traffic signal, which also has a box with flashing lights indicating an approaching train.
Los Angeles Fire Department personnel cut away the roof of the smashed car to remove the boy and his great-grandmother.
“I’ve been here 4 1/2 years and I’ve lost count of the number of accidents I’ve seen with this train,” said fire Battalion Chief Ray Gomez.
2 die when car collides with Blue Line train
Daily Breeze
August 21, 2006
Two people were killed and two other people, including a 7-year- old boy, were critically injured Sunday when the vehicle they were in collided with a Blue Line train in downtown Los Angeles, a fire official said.
The crash was reported at Maple Avenue and Washington Boulevard shortly after 9 a.m., said Brian Ballton of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
A 25-year-old man, who was driving, and his 17-year-old sister, were pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
A 55-year-old woman and the 7-year-old boy were taken to Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center in critical condition, he said.
Witnesses told KABC Channel 7 it appeared the man tried to make a left turn in front of the train.
About 50 people were on the train, and six were taken to hospitals with minor injuries, Ballton said.
According to KCBS Channel 2, it's the third crash involving an MTA Blue Line train in eight days.
On Aug. 13, a Blue Line train collided with a car at Flower Street and Pico Boulevard downtown, injuring the driver of a Honda, his passenger and several rail passengers.
Two days ago, a woman suffered minor injuries when she tried to make a turn in front of a Blue Line train near Flower Street and Venice Boulevard and was struck.
Two Dead, Eight Injured After Car Crashes Into MTA Train
KABC-TV
August 20, 2006
LOS ANGELES - Two people were killed and two others, including a 7- year-old boy, were critically injured Sunday when the vehicle they were in crashed into an MTA Blue Line train, a fire official said.
Of the 50 people on the train which was hit near downtown Los Angeles, six were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries, said Los Angeles City fire spokesperson Brian Ballton.
Fire personnel were dispatched to the scene of the crash in the area of Maple Avenue and Washington Boulevard at 9:03 a.m., Ballton said.
The 40-year-old male driver and the front seat passenger, a 40-year-old woman, were pronounced dead at the scene. The other occupants, a 55- year-old woman and a 7-year-old boy, were transported to Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center in critical condition.
A description of the vehicle involved in the crash was not immediately available, Ballton said.
Also:
Los Angeles Times
By Nancy Cleeland
August 21, 2006
A man and his sister were killed and his 7-year-old son was critically injured Sunday morning when the man turned their car in front of a Blue Line train near downtown Los Angeles and the vehicle was dragged half a block along the tracks, police said.
The siblings’ grandmother, 68, who was in the back seat, was being treated at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center for chest pains, said Det. Josephine Mapson of the Los Angeles Police Department.
The driver was identified as Cesar Herrera, 27, of Los Angeles. His sister, Maria A. Herrera, was 17. Police did not identify the survivors.
Six of the 92 passengers on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority train were treated for minor injuries and released, Mapson said.
Both the car and the train, which runs at street level along the center of Washington Boulevard, were traveling east. The train’s operator told police that he saw a maroon Mazda stopped in the left-turn lane ahead of him at the intersection of Maple Avenue. Just as the train was about to pass, the traffic light turned green for through traffic but the left-turn arrow remained red.
Nevertheless, the Mazda driver turned left in front of the train, and the car was struck and pushed 162 feet east.
Mapson said the driver may have misread the traffic signal, which also has a box with flashing lights indicating an approaching train.
Los Angeles Fire Department personnel cut away the roof of the smashed car to remove the boy and his great-grandmother.
“I’ve been here 4 1/2 years and I’ve lost count of the number of accidents I’ve seen with this train,” said fire Battalion Chief Ray Gomez.
2 die when car collides with Blue Line train
Daily Breeze
August 21, 2006
Two people were killed and two other people, including a 7-year- old boy, were critically injured Sunday when the vehicle they were in collided with a Blue Line train in downtown Los Angeles, a fire official said.
The crash was reported at Maple Avenue and Washington Boulevard shortly after 9 a.m., said Brian Ballton of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
A 25-year-old man, who was driving, and his 17-year-old sister, were pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
A 55-year-old woman and the 7-year-old boy were taken to Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center in critical condition, he said.
Witnesses told KABC Channel 7 it appeared the man tried to make a left turn in front of the train.
About 50 people were on the train, and six were taken to hospitals with minor injuries, Ballton said.
According to KCBS Channel 2, it's the third crash involving an MTA Blue Line train in eight days.
On Aug. 13, a Blue Line train collided with a car at Flower Street and Pico Boulevard downtown, injuring the driver of a Honda, his passenger and several rail passengers.
Two days ago, a woman suffered minor injuries when she tried to make a turn in front of a Blue Line train near Flower Street and Venice Boulevard and was struck.
Two Dead, Eight Injured After Car Crashes Into MTA Train
KABC-TV
August 20, 2006
LOS ANGELES - Two people were killed and two others, including a 7- year-old boy, were critically injured Sunday when the vehicle they were in crashed into an MTA Blue Line train, a fire official said.
Of the 50 people on the train which was hit near downtown Los Angeles, six were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries, said Los Angeles City fire spokesperson Brian Ballton.
Fire personnel were dispatched to the scene of the crash in the area of Maple Avenue and Washington Boulevard at 9:03 a.m., Ballton said.
The 40-year-old male driver and the front seat passenger, a 40-year-old woman, were pronounced dead at the scene. The other occupants, a 55- year-old woman and a 7-year-old boy, were transported to Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center in critical condition.
A description of the vehicle involved in the crash was not immediately available, Ballton said.
Also:
- Post on the LAFD Blog mentions the 7-year old boy's name is Anthony
- Pictures from the accident are on the LAFD Flickr page
Friday, August 18, 2006
Blue Line Injures Motorist at Venice
Car, Blue Line Train Results In Minor Injuries
KCBS-TV
August 19, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A woman was injured Friday after she turned her car into the path of a Blue Line train, a Los Angeles Fire Department official said.
The collision happened near Flower Street and Venice Boulevard at 6:20 p.m., department spokesman Brian Ballton said. Three ambulances were sent to the scene, but no one was taken to a hospital.
"Both occupants of the car were wearing seat belts," Ballton said. "If they hadn't been, it's a high probability they would have been severely hurt."
The only person injured from the accident was the driver of the car, and she was treated at the scene and released, he said.
If someone was in the back seat of the car, where the train hit, there would have been critical injuries, Ballton said.
There were 80 passengers on the train.
KCBS-TV
August 19, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A woman was injured Friday after she turned her car into the path of a Blue Line train, a Los Angeles Fire Department official said.
The collision happened near Flower Street and Venice Boulevard at 6:20 p.m., department spokesman Brian Ballton said. Three ambulances were sent to the scene, but no one was taken to a hospital.
"Both occupants of the car were wearing seat belts," Ballton said. "If they hadn't been, it's a high probability they would have been severely hurt."
The only person injured from the accident was the driver of the car, and she was treated at the scene and released, he said.
If someone was in the back seat of the car, where the train hit, there would have been critical injuries, Ballton said.
There were 80 passengers on the train.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Blue Line Injures 7 and Demolishes Car at Pico
7 Injured After Blue Line Train, Car Collide
KCBS-TV
August 13, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― Seven people were injured Saturday when a Metro Blue Line train collided with a car in downtown Los Angeles.
The accident, which happened at 8:50 p.m. at Pico Boulevard and Flower Street, occurred when a black Honda attempted to make a left turn across train tracks into a parking lot. The Metro Blue Line, which was on its way to Long Beach, struck the car at full speed, Los Angeles police Sgt. Marianus vonKorff said.
The car was demolished, but the driver and passenger - both men in their 40s - escaped with only minor injuries and were taken to California Hospital Medical Center, Los Angeles City fire Capt. Brian Ballton said.
The driver may have broken his arm, vonKorff said.
At least five passengers were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries, Ballton said.
The train was heading from Union Station to Long Beach.
KCBS-TV
August 13, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― Seven people were injured Saturday when a Metro Blue Line train collided with a car in downtown Los Angeles.
The accident, which happened at 8:50 p.m. at Pico Boulevard and Flower Street, occurred when a black Honda attempted to make a left turn across train tracks into a parking lot. The Metro Blue Line, which was on its way to Long Beach, struck the car at full speed, Los Angeles police Sgt. Marianus vonKorff said.
The car was demolished, but the driver and passenger - both men in their 40s - escaped with only minor injuries and were taken to California Hospital Medical Center, Los Angeles City fire Capt. Brian Ballton said.
The driver may have broken his arm, vonKorff said.
At least five passengers were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries, Ballton said.
The train was heading from Union Station to Long Beach.
Tuesday, May 9, 2006
Blue Line Crushes Car Leaves Driver in Critical Condition
Accident at Washington/San Pedro.
Train was going 30 mph and pushed car 150 feet.
Footage from KCBS-TV
Train was going 30 mph and pushed car 150 feet.
Footage from KCBS-TV
Tuesday, April 4, 2006
Blue Line Kills Man at Artesia Station
Man Is Struck, Killed by Blue Line Train
Los Angeles Times
April 05, 2006
A man was killed by a Metro Rail Blue Line train at the Artesia station Tuesday, officials said.
The man, whose name was not released, was walking on or near the tracks about 1 p.m. when he was struck by a southbound train pulling into the station, Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said.
The station was closed for more than three hours, delaying commutes by at least 30 minutes.
Los Angeles Times
April 05, 2006
A man was killed by a Metro Rail Blue Line train at the Artesia station Tuesday, officials said.
The man, whose name was not released, was walking on or near the tracks about 1 p.m. when he was struck by a southbound train pulling into the station, Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said.
The station was closed for more than three hours, delaying commutes by at least 30 minutes.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Bicyclist Hit by Blue Line at 55th Street
Train Critically Injures Bicyclist
KCBS-TV
March 17, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A bicyclist was critically injured Friday after he was hit by a southbound Metro Blue Line train.
The accident happened at 5:33 p.m. at the intersection of East 55th Street and Long Beach Boulevard, the Los Angeles Fire Department's Brian Humphrey said.
The man was pedaling his bicycle at the signalized intersection when the crash happened. The bicyclist suffered head injuries and was taken to County-USC Medical Center.
Also:
KCBS-TV
March 17, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A bicyclist was critically injured Friday after he was hit by a southbound Metro Blue Line train.
The accident happened at 5:33 p.m. at the intersection of East 55th Street and Long Beach Boulevard, the Los Angeles Fire Department's Brian Humphrey said.
The man was pedaling his bicycle at the signalized intersection when the crash happened. The bicyclist suffered head injuries and was taken to County-USC Medical Center.
Also:
- Covered on the LAFD Blog
Tuesday, March 7, 2006
Blue Line Critical Injures Motorist at San Pedro
Driver In Critical Condition After Metro Collision
KCBS-TV
March 9, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― One person was critically injured Tuesday in a collision between a Metro Blue Line train and a car at San Pedro Street and Washington Boulevard.
The driver of a small black car going west on Washington turned left in front of the southbound train, according to Gayle Anderson of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Tens minutes prior to the collision, a DASH bus slammed into a building in downtown Los Angeles at 7th and Hope streets.
KCBS-TV
March 9, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― One person was critically injured Tuesday in a collision between a Metro Blue Line train and a car at San Pedro Street and Washington Boulevard.
The driver of a small black car going west on Washington turned left in front of the southbound train, according to Gayle Anderson of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Tens minutes prior to the collision, a DASH bus slammed into a building in downtown Los Angeles at 7th and Hope streets.
Monday, July 11, 2005
Blue Line Kills Man in Compton
Man Killed by Blue Line Train in Compton
Los Angeles Times
July 12, 2005
A fast-moving MTA Blue Line train struck and killed a man as he crossed the tracks Monday in Compton, authorities said.
According to Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Bill Heard, eyewitnesses said the unidentified man waited at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Willowbrook Avenue for a northbound train to pass. He then started across the tracks and was hit by a southbound train, Heard said.
The 6:33 p.m. accident shut down part of the MTA’s most heavily traveled light-rail line, which runs from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach. Buses shuttled passengers between the Compton and Artesia stations.
More than 65 people – both motorists and pedestrians – have been killed by Blue Line trains since the line opened in 1990.
Los Angeles Times
July 12, 2005
A fast-moving MTA Blue Line train struck and killed a man as he crossed the tracks Monday in Compton, authorities said.
According to Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Bill Heard, eyewitnesses said the unidentified man waited at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Willowbrook Avenue for a northbound train to pass. He then started across the tracks and was hit by a southbound train, Heard said.
The 6:33 p.m. accident shut down part of the MTA’s most heavily traveled light-rail line, which runs from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach. Buses shuttled passengers between the Compton and Artesia stations.
More than 65 people – both motorists and pedestrians – have been killed by Blue Line trains since the line opened in 1990.
Thursday, July 7, 2005
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Blue Line Kills Man at Florence Station
Man Is Killed by MTA Blue Line Train in South L.A.
Los Angeles Times
November 26, 2004
A man was killed Thursday by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, a sheriff's deputy said.
The man was struck about 3 p.m. on tracks near East Florence and Graham avenues, according to Deputy Tania Plunkett.
Sheriff's homicide detectives were investigating the death, Plunkett said. She said the section of light-rail line between Los Angeles and Long Beach was closed after the incident.
The man, whose identity was withheld pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A person waiting near the Florence station platform fainted and was taken to a hospital after seeing the man struck, Plunkett said.
Man Struck, Killed By Train In Los Angeles
Associated Press
November 25, 2004
A man was struck and killed by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority train Thursday, authorities said.
Nobody on the train was hurt.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene after the 3 p.m. accident, Los Angeles County sheriff's Deputy Carlos Lopez said.
His identity was not immediately released.
The train, carrying 400 passengers from downtown to Long Beach, was delayed for about 30 minutes, MTA spokesman Jose Ubaldo said.
The accident was under investigation.
Los Angeles Times
November 26, 2004
A man was killed Thursday by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, a sheriff's deputy said.
The man was struck about 3 p.m. on tracks near East Florence and Graham avenues, according to Deputy Tania Plunkett.
Sheriff's homicide detectives were investigating the death, Plunkett said. She said the section of light-rail line between Los Angeles and Long Beach was closed after the incident.
The man, whose identity was withheld pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A person waiting near the Florence station platform fainted and was taken to a hospital after seeing the man struck, Plunkett said.
Man Struck, Killed By Train In Los Angeles
Associated Press
November 25, 2004
A man was struck and killed by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority train Thursday, authorities said.
Nobody on the train was hurt.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene after the 3 p.m. accident, Los Angeles County sheriff's Deputy Carlos Lopez said.
His identity was not immediately released.
The train, carrying 400 passengers from downtown to Long Beach, was delayed for about 30 minutes, MTA spokesman Jose Ubaldo said.
The accident was under investigation.
Wednesday, September 1, 2004
Blue Line Kills Woman Pushing Shopping Cart
Pedestrian Is Killed by Train
Los Angeles Times
By Zeke Minaya
September 2, 2004
A 46-year-old woman pushing a cart of empty bottles and cans was struck and killed Wednesday by a Long Beach-bound Blue Line train, authorities said.
The accident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the train approached the Florence station on Graham Avenue, said Jose Ubaldo, a spokesman for the MTA.
All the warning systems indicating an approaching train — including blowing whistles and flashing lights — were working, Ubaldo said.
With a rush-hour crowd gathering at the station, the woman joined a group of people, including her companion, in racing across the tracks in front of the oncoming train, Ubaldo said.
She was struck near the entrance of the platform and died at the scene, Ubaldo said. "She almost made it," Ubaldo said.
Authorities did not release the name of the victim, a transient, pending notification of relatives.
The MTA and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have opened investigations. Service to the station was halted for 30 to 45 minutes, Ubaldo said. The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Wednesday's fatality, more than 22 occupants of vehicles and more than 40 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA's four rail routes. The commuter trains sometimes move at up to 55 mph.
Los Angeles Times
By Zeke Minaya
September 2, 2004
A 46-year-old woman pushing a cart of empty bottles and cans was struck and killed Wednesday by a Long Beach-bound Blue Line train, authorities said.
The accident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the train approached the Florence station on Graham Avenue, said Jose Ubaldo, a spokesman for the MTA.
All the warning systems indicating an approaching train — including blowing whistles and flashing lights — were working, Ubaldo said.
With a rush-hour crowd gathering at the station, the woman joined a group of people, including her companion, in racing across the tracks in front of the oncoming train, Ubaldo said.
She was struck near the entrance of the platform and died at the scene, Ubaldo said. "She almost made it," Ubaldo said.
Authorities did not release the name of the victim, a transient, pending notification of relatives.
The MTA and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have opened investigations. Service to the station was halted for 30 to 45 minutes, Ubaldo said. The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Wednesday's fatality, more than 22 occupants of vehicles and more than 40 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA's four rail routes. The commuter trains sometimes move at up to 55 mph.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Gold Line Takes Child's Limb because MTA was Too Cheap to Build a Fence
Freeway wreck involving commuter train kills three in Pasadena
Associated Press
August 12, 2004
PASADENA, Calif. - An automobile rolled over on a freeway Thursday, killing three people and injuring three others, including a boy who was hurled onto adjacent commuter rail tracks where a train severed one of his legs, authorities said.
The boy was in critical condition and two other surviving victims had major head injuries and broken bones, said Lisa Derdarian of the Pasadena Fire Department. Two others were hospitalized for emotional distress, she added. The identities of the victims were not immediately released.
The accident occurred about 10:10 a.m. on the Foothill Freeway. The Metro Gold Line light rail track runs down the median, separated from the east- and westbound lanes of the freeway by fences.
Two people died at the scene and a third was pronounced dead at a hospital, Derdarian said. No one on the train was hurt but service to and from the Pasadena terminal station was halted for about an hour, said Marc Littman, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Passengers had to use a station about a mile away, he said.
Pasadena is 16 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.
Associated Press
August 12, 2004
PASADENA, Calif. - An automobile rolled over on a freeway Thursday, killing three people and injuring three others, including a boy who was hurled onto adjacent commuter rail tracks where a train severed one of his legs, authorities said.
The boy was in critical condition and two other surviving victims had major head injuries and broken bones, said Lisa Derdarian of the Pasadena Fire Department. Two others were hospitalized for emotional distress, she added. The identities of the victims were not immediately released.
The accident occurred about 10:10 a.m. on the Foothill Freeway. The Metro Gold Line light rail track runs down the median, separated from the east- and westbound lanes of the freeway by fences.
Two people died at the scene and a third was pronounced dead at a hospital, Derdarian said. No one on the train was hurt but service to and from the Pasadena terminal station was halted for about an hour, said Marc Littman, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Passengers had to use a station about a mile away, he said.
Pasadena is 16 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.
Monday, March 1, 2004
Blue Line Kills Motorist in Watts and Injures 14
MTA Train Hits Car, Killing Woman
Los Angeles Times
By Kevin Pang and Arlene Martinez
March 02, 2004
A motorist turned into the path of an MTA Blue Line train at a Watts intersection Monday, killing one of the car’s occupants and injuring 14 people.
The most seriously injured were traveling in the 2003 Honda Civic, including the 45-year-old driver, who was listed in critical condition at Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center. A boy in the back seat sustained minor injuries and was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
Nine passengers aboard the train were sent to nearby hospitals for minor neck and back injuries. Three others on the train were treated at the scene. Sara Silvia Tovar, 48, was pronounced dead at the accident site.
Authorities said the car attempted to turn left onto southbound Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue about 8 a.m. when the train, traveling about 50 mph, struck the passenger side of the vehicle.
The car then hit an MTA power pole, knocking down one of its support beams.
The car was pushed alongside the rails until it came to rest next to the train, about 200 feet from the site of the collision.
Los Angeles police spokesman Capt. Terry Hara said investigators believe the motorist was at fault because left turns are not allowed onto Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue.
“The car wasn’t on the correct side of the street, it was in the middle,” Hara said.
Residents say drivers – as well as pedestrians – are careless while crossing the tracks.
“I’ve seen it so many times
“Once the guard rails come down [drivers] don’t know whether to go back or front.”
Tigerino and other witnesses said he heard the warning sounds of the crossing gate lowering and moments later heard a loud impact.
The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Monday’s fatality, 22 occupants of vehicles and 43 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA’s four rail routes.
Ten accidents have occurred at the Wilmington intersection alone, including five fatalities, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Rick Jager.
“The corridor has been particularly difficult for us. There are a lot of different exits and intersections,” Jager said. “We’ve worked with the city to erect more signage.”
Still, there are several other intersections along the route that have recorded significantly more accidents than the Wilmington intersection, including Venice Boulevard with 30 vehicular accidents, San Pedro Street with 23 accidents and 20th Street in Long Beach with 20 accidents.
Before 1990, slow-moving freight trains used the tracks, Jager said, and people may not realize that the Blue Line trains are moving up to 55 mph.
This is the third accident on the Blue Line this year, but the first involving a fatality.
The accident caused disruptions to MTA Blue Line service between the 103rd Street and Imperial/Wilmington stations during the busy Monday morning period. Jager said passengers experienced 30-minute delays when they were bused around the accident scene and transferred to another train.
Los Angeles Times
By Kevin Pang and Arlene Martinez
March 02, 2004
A motorist turned into the path of an MTA Blue Line train at a Watts intersection Monday, killing one of the car’s occupants and injuring 14 people.
The most seriously injured were traveling in the 2003 Honda Civic, including the 45-year-old driver, who was listed in critical condition at Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center. A boy in the back seat sustained minor injuries and was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
Nine passengers aboard the train were sent to nearby hospitals for minor neck and back injuries. Three others on the train were treated at the scene. Sara Silvia Tovar, 48, was pronounced dead at the accident site.
Authorities said the car attempted to turn left onto southbound Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue about 8 a.m. when the train, traveling about 50 mph, struck the passenger side of the vehicle.
The car then hit an MTA power pole, knocking down one of its support beams.
The car was pushed alongside the rails until it came to rest next to the train, about 200 feet from the site of the collision.
Los Angeles police spokesman Capt. Terry Hara said investigators believe the motorist was at fault because left turns are not allowed onto Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue.
“The car wasn’t on the correct side of the street, it was in the middle,” Hara said.
Residents say drivers – as well as pedestrians – are careless while crossing the tracks.
“I’ve seen it so many times
“Once the guard rails come down [drivers] don’t know whether to go back or front.”
Tigerino and other witnesses said he heard the warning sounds of the crossing gate lowering and moments later heard a loud impact.
The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Monday’s fatality, 22 occupants of vehicles and 43 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA’s four rail routes.
Ten accidents have occurred at the Wilmington intersection alone, including five fatalities, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Rick Jager.
“The corridor has been particularly difficult for us. There are a lot of different exits and intersections,” Jager said. “We’ve worked with the city to erect more signage.”
Still, there are several other intersections along the route that have recorded significantly more accidents than the Wilmington intersection, including Venice Boulevard with 30 vehicular accidents, San Pedro Street with 23 accidents and 20th Street in Long Beach with 20 accidents.
Before 1990, slow-moving freight trains used the tracks, Jager said, and people may not realize that the Blue Line trains are moving up to 55 mph.
This is the third accident on the Blue Line this year, but the first involving a fatality.
The accident caused disruptions to MTA Blue Line service between the 103rd Street and Imperial/Wilmington stations during the busy Monday morning period. Jager said passengers experienced 30-minute delays when they were bused around the accident scene and transferred to another train.
Saturday, January 17, 2004
Blue Line Hits Teen Driver in Long Beach
Police Seek Identity of Driver Hurt in Crash
Los Angeles Times
January 20, 2004
Police were seeking the public’s help Monday in identifying a motorist who survived a crash with a Blue Line train.
The crash occurred at 9:11 p.m. Saturday when a tan 1985 Toyota Corolla turned into the path of a train at Long Beach Boulevard and Burnett Street, said Officer Greg Schirmer. The car’s license plate number is 5CPH259.
The driver, a male Latino believed to be in his late teens, with no identification, remained hospitalized and was unable to communicate.
Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Brian Watt at (562) 570-5520.
Los Angeles Times
January 20, 2004
Police were seeking the public’s help Monday in identifying a motorist who survived a crash with a Blue Line train.
The crash occurred at 9:11 p.m. Saturday when a tan 1985 Toyota Corolla turned into the path of a train at Long Beach Boulevard and Burnett Street, said Officer Greg Schirmer. The car’s license plate number is 5CPH259.
The driver, a male Latino believed to be in his late teens, with no identification, remained hospitalized and was unable to communicate.
Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Brian Watt at (562) 570-5520.
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Blue Line Hits Cyclist in Willowbrook
Blue Line Train Injures Bicyclist Crossing Track
Los Angeles Times
January 09, 2003
A bicyclist was hospitalized after being struck by a Blue Line train in Willowbrook on Wednesday afternoon, officials said.
The man was hit at 4:30 as he attempted to cross the track after maneuvering around the four gates at the crossing at 119th Street near the Imperial station, an MTA spokesman said. The accident caused delays on the Blue Line for about an hour.
Los Angeles Times
January 09, 2003
A bicyclist was hospitalized after being struck by a Blue Line train in Willowbrook on Wednesday afternoon, officials said.
The man was hit at 4:30 as he attempted to cross the track after maneuvering around the four gates at the crossing at 119th Street near the Imperial station, an MTA spokesman said. The accident caused delays on the Blue Line for about an hour.
Saturday, November 23, 2002
Blue Line Injures 21 Year Old Motorist
2 Injured When Car Hits Train
Los Angeles Times
Times Staff Writer
November 24, 2002
A 21-year-old driver and her passenger were injured Saturday when she drove through a lowered railroad crossing barrier and into the path of a Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach, police said.
It was the second serious incident in as many days involving a Blue Line train.
Three people on board the train, including the operator, received minor injuries in the 6:30 a.m. incident.
Police identified the driver as Elena Taofi of Long Beach. She was reported in fair condition Saturday night at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.
Her passenger, Faamu Lufi Sao, also of Long Beach, was in fair condition at the same hospital, where he was being treated for severe head injuries and a broken pelvis.
Long Beach officers investigating the incident said Taofi was driving a 1997 Nissan Altima west on Wardlow Road when she smashed through the lowered railroad crossing arm at Pacific Avenue, breaking it off its base.
A southbound train entering the crossing struck the car.
Train operator Rosie Haynes, 51, was treated at a local hospital clinic for a shoulder injury.
Two of the roughly 50 train passengers also sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene, police said.
Just one day before, a 16-year-old girl was struck and killed by a Blue Line train south of downtown Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County coroner's office on Saturday identified her as Angela Barahona of Los Angeles.
Witnesses told Los Angeles police that the girl was walking across the street against a red light when she was hit by a southbound train on East Washington Boulevard.
She died at the scene.
Los Angeles Times
Times Staff Writer
November 24, 2002
A 21-year-old driver and her passenger were injured Saturday when she drove through a lowered railroad crossing barrier and into the path of a Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach, police said.
It was the second serious incident in as many days involving a Blue Line train.
Three people on board the train, including the operator, received minor injuries in the 6:30 a.m. incident.
Police identified the driver as Elena Taofi of Long Beach. She was reported in fair condition Saturday night at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.
Her passenger, Faamu Lufi Sao, also of Long Beach, was in fair condition at the same hospital, where he was being treated for severe head injuries and a broken pelvis.
Long Beach officers investigating the incident said Taofi was driving a 1997 Nissan Altima west on Wardlow Road when she smashed through the lowered railroad crossing arm at Pacific Avenue, breaking it off its base.
A southbound train entering the crossing struck the car.
Train operator Rosie Haynes, 51, was treated at a local hospital clinic for a shoulder injury.
Two of the roughly 50 train passengers also sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene, police said.
Just one day before, a 16-year-old girl was struck and killed by a Blue Line train south of downtown Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County coroner's office on Saturday identified her as Angela Barahona of Los Angeles.
Witnesses told Los Angeles police that the girl was walking across the street against a red light when she was hit by a southbound train on East Washington Boulevard.
She died at the scene.
Friday, November 22, 2002
Blue Line Kills 16 Year Old Girl Near San Pedro Station
Blue Line Train Kills Teenager in Crosswalk
Los Angeles Times
By Kurt Streeter
November 23, 2002
A 16-year-old girl was killed Friday when she was struck by a Blue Line train on a street just south of downtown Los Angeles.
The accident raises the death toll to 61 on the light railway since it opened in 1990. The 22-mile line connecting downtown with Long Beach has many stretches that run among cars and pedestrians on busy streets. It has the worst fatal accident rate among light-rail lines in California and is among the deadliest railways in the nation, according to Federal Transit Administration statistics.
Witnesses told police the girl was in a crosswalk when she was hit about 7:30 a.m. by a southbound train near a station platform in the 700 block of East Washington Boulevard, said LAPD Sgt. Kevin Custard.
The witnesses said the girl, whose name was being withheld pending notification of her family, was crossing the street against a pedestrian red-light signal.
“She apparently was rushing across the street, even though she didn’t have a signal to go,” Custard said. “The train hit her and ran her over.”
She was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles Fire Department officials.
Full service on the Blue Line was stopped for about two hours, an MTA spokesman said.
The Blue Line carries about 62,000 riders daily, making it one of the busiest light-rail lines in the nation.
Los Angeles Times
By Kurt Streeter
November 23, 2002
A 16-year-old girl was killed Friday when she was struck by a Blue Line train on a street just south of downtown Los Angeles.
The accident raises the death toll to 61 on the light railway since it opened in 1990. The 22-mile line connecting downtown with Long Beach has many stretches that run among cars and pedestrians on busy streets. It has the worst fatal accident rate among light-rail lines in California and is among the deadliest railways in the nation, according to Federal Transit Administration statistics.
Witnesses told police the girl was in a crosswalk when she was hit about 7:30 a.m. by a southbound train near a station platform in the 700 block of East Washington Boulevard, said LAPD Sgt. Kevin Custard.
The witnesses said the girl, whose name was being withheld pending notification of her family, was crossing the street against a pedestrian red-light signal.
“She apparently was rushing across the street, even though she didn’t have a signal to go,” Custard said. “The train hit her and ran her over.”
She was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles Fire Department officials.
Full service on the Blue Line was stopped for about two hours, an MTA spokesman said.
The Blue Line carries about 62,000 riders daily, making it one of the busiest light-rail lines in the nation.
Thursday, July 19, 2001
Blue Line Kills 25 Year Old at Vernon Station
Man Struck by Blue Line Train Is Critically Hurt
Los Angeles Times
July 20, 2001
A 25-year-old man was critically injured Thursday after being struck by a Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, authorities said.
The incident occurred in the 4400 block of South Long Beach Avenue about 5:10 p.m., said Fire Department spokesman Jim Wells. He was taken to California Hospital in “very, very critical condition” with massive head and chest injuries, Wells said.
Los Angeles Times
July 20, 2001
A 25-year-old man was critically injured Thursday after being struck by a Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, authorities said.
The incident occurred in the 4400 block of South Long Beach Avenue about 5:10 p.m., said Fire Department spokesman Jim Wells. He was taken to California Hospital in “very, very critical condition” with massive head and chest injuries, Wells said.
Friday, February 25, 2000
Bridge to Be Built Where MTA Train Killed Youth - LA Times
Los Angeles Times
Times Staff Writer
February 25, 2000
Design work has begun on a pedestrian bridge over the Blue Line light rail tracks at the site where a 13-year-old boy was struck by a train and killed last summer.
The bridge, to be built at the intersection of 55th Street and Long Beach Avenue, will be funded by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the rail line.
The MTA proposed the project in 1996, but plans for a bridge gained new urgency when Gilberto Reynaga was struck by a train last July 17 as he and a friend darted across the tracks while heading home from playing basketball.
After the accident, City Councilwoman Rita Walters, who has been pressing for the bridge for years, got the city to station a crossing guard at the intersection.
Construction of the bridge is scheduled to begin in November and completion is expected in June 2001.
Times Staff Writer
February 25, 2000
Design work has begun on a pedestrian bridge over the Blue Line light rail tracks at the site where a 13-year-old boy was struck by a train and killed last summer.
The bridge, to be built at the intersection of 55th Street and Long Beach Avenue, will be funded by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the rail line.
The MTA proposed the project in 1996, but plans for a bridge gained new urgency when Gilberto Reynaga was struck by a train last July 17 as he and a friend darted across the tracks while heading home from playing basketball.
After the accident, City Councilwoman Rita Walters, who has been pressing for the bridge for years, got the city to station a crossing guard at the intersection.
Construction of the bridge is scheduled to begin in November and completion is expected in June 2001.
Tuesday, February 22, 2000
MTA Can Do Little to Boost Crossing Safety, Study Finds - LA Times
Los Angeles Times
By Douglas P. Shuit
February 22, 2000
If anyone should know the dangers of the Metro Blue Line inside and out, it would be Los Angeles County Supervisor Yvonne Brathwaite Burke.
As head of the powerful Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Burke plays a leading role in setting policy for operating the Blue Line, whose trains operate along city streets and have killed 53 people since it opened in 1990. That is by far the most deaths for any light rail line in the state and is believed to be the most in the nation.
And, as someone who lives and works in the area served by the Blue Line, Burke regularly experiences the anxiety motorists face when crossing the tracks. Getting caught inside the gates when a train comes is a constant fear.
"I have not actually been stuck [inside the gates], but I have been concerned about getting stuck," she said. "If there is any traffic ahead of you as you start going across, there is a tremendous potential of getting caught. So, I tell you . . . I fly across the tracks."
Burke's comments are informative because the MTA, after a two- month in-house safety analysis, is essentially moving forward with its current Blue Line policy, which she indicates will not make her feel much safer.
Burke and others on the MTA's board of directors are finding that there are few dramatic moves they can make to improve safety on the heavily used rail line, which provides riders with as many as 57,000 trips a day on the 22-mile run between downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach.
The analysis, prompted by the deaths of six people Nov. 27 and Times stories exploring safety issues on the Blue Line, included an estimate that creating a grade separation--in effect, moving the tracks off the street--would cost as much as $1.6 billion. That is far more than the district can afford, and represents roughly twice the Blue Line's original construction cost.
That leaves MTA managers with a game plan that involves continuing the same policies that they have been following for years, with some tweaking here and there.
In an effort to reduce the number of so-called "S" turns, in which motorists use open traffic lanes to drive around closed traffic gates, the MTA plans to install four gates, rather than the conventional two, at as many as two crossings a year. Traffic signals also will be upgraded. And a stepped-up program of televised, public safety announcements, movie trailers, radio messages, billboards and school safety programs will be implemented.
At Imperial Highway, where there have been a number of accidents involving Blue Line trains, the city of Los Angeles, county, MTA and Caltrans are jointly financing construction of a $20-million bridge for motor vehicle traffic over the railroad tracks.
The MTA's safety program also would apply to the first phase of the 13.7-mile Pasadena light rail line. The Pasadena line is being built at street level, so will face similar traffic problems during its run through Lincoln Heights, Highland Park, South Pasadena and Pasadena. The line is being built by the Pasadena Blue Line Construction Authority, but is being financed and will be operated by the MTA.
During a hearing on Blue Line issues before the MTA's operations committee last week, Burke made a point of saying that the best chance of paying for grade separations comes during construction, because once a system is built the costs become prohibitive. Still, although she made it clear that she thinks grade separations would save lives, she said the MTA doesn't have money for grade separations on that system.
Residents along the proposed Pasadena route are becoming increasingly restive. Jim Leong, a retired businessman representing the Mount Washington Assn., pleaded for a grade separation during the operations committee hearing, although the Pasadena Blue Line Construction Authority has rejected the possibility of major changes to the project.
The Mount Washington Assn. is reconsidering its conditional support for the Pasadena rail line, in large part because of the Los Angeles line's safety record, Leong said. "When the Pasadena line was planned, we didn't have the experience of the Los Angeles Blue Line. Now we have 53 deaths. That is scaring some people," Leong said.
Richard Thorpe, chief executive officer of the Pasadena Blue Line Construction Authority, said he believes conditions on the Eastside are different from those on the Los Angeles-to-Long Beach line.
For one thing, the Pasadena line will not have freight trains running alongside its own trains, as does the Los Angeles line, Thorpe said. Nor will there be streets running parallel to the trains. Some of those who have studied the Los Angeles line believe the slowness of the Union Pacific freight trains frustrates motorists and causes them to take risks they might not ordinarily take. Left turns in front of trains are a leading contributor to Los Angeles Blue Line accidents.
MTA authorities have consistently argued that they believe the large number of deaths and injuries on the Los Angeles Blue Line is caused by risky behavior by pedestrians and motorists, who flout traffic laws and warning signals as they cross in front of trains.
An analysis of Blue Line accident records by The Times indicated that speed may be a contributor. It found that 85% of the deaths have occurred in the high-speed corridor, where trains go through intersections at 55 mph. An analysis comparing the Blue Line with light rail systems across the country found that the MTA trains operate at one of the highest average rates of speed. The Times also found that the last 18 deaths have all involved trains traveling south, whose speed tends to be higher through intersections.
MTA safety chief Paul Lennon, who put together the in-house analysis, said after the operations committee hearing that he is not recommending any changes in the speed of trains. He made it clear he still believes the main problem is that people go around closed crossing gates or ignore warning signals and horns. MTA investigations have held victims to have been at fault in all cases.
"The 55-mph speed I think is a very reasonable safe transit speed," he said. Influencing his belief is a fear that if the trains are slowed appreciably, the riders will return to cars. "My concern is that people might get off that train, find a $200 car and become a statistic someplace else. We are in the lifesaving business, as far as I am concerned."
Lennon said the MTA will continue to look into factors contributing to the string of accidents on the southbound tracks.
Burke said she is not satisfied with the steps Lennon is recommending. She said further steps must be taken "to prevent some of these accidents," but had no concrete proposals. Although the costs are prohibitive, she said, "I believe we have to look at some alternative for grade separation."
By Douglas P. Shuit
February 22, 2000
If anyone should know the dangers of the Metro Blue Line inside and out, it would be Los Angeles County Supervisor Yvonne Brathwaite Burke.
As head of the powerful Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Burke plays a leading role in setting policy for operating the Blue Line, whose trains operate along city streets and have killed 53 people since it opened in 1990. That is by far the most deaths for any light rail line in the state and is believed to be the most in the nation.
And, as someone who lives and works in the area served by the Blue Line, Burke regularly experiences the anxiety motorists face when crossing the tracks. Getting caught inside the gates when a train comes is a constant fear.
"I have not actually been stuck [inside the gates], but I have been concerned about getting stuck," she said. "If there is any traffic ahead of you as you start going across, there is a tremendous potential of getting caught. So, I tell you . . . I fly across the tracks."
Burke's comments are informative because the MTA, after a two- month in-house safety analysis, is essentially moving forward with its current Blue Line policy, which she indicates will not make her feel much safer.
Burke and others on the MTA's board of directors are finding that there are few dramatic moves they can make to improve safety on the heavily used rail line, which provides riders with as many as 57,000 trips a day on the 22-mile run between downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach.
The analysis, prompted by the deaths of six people Nov. 27 and Times stories exploring safety issues on the Blue Line, included an estimate that creating a grade separation--in effect, moving the tracks off the street--would cost as much as $1.6 billion. That is far more than the district can afford, and represents roughly twice the Blue Line's original construction cost.
That leaves MTA managers with a game plan that involves continuing the same policies that they have been following for years, with some tweaking here and there.
In an effort to reduce the number of so-called "S" turns, in which motorists use open traffic lanes to drive around closed traffic gates, the MTA plans to install four gates, rather than the conventional two, at as many as two crossings a year. Traffic signals also will be upgraded. And a stepped-up program of televised, public safety announcements, movie trailers, radio messages, billboards and school safety programs will be implemented.
At Imperial Highway, where there have been a number of accidents involving Blue Line trains, the city of Los Angeles, county, MTA and Caltrans are jointly financing construction of a $20-million bridge for motor vehicle traffic over the railroad tracks.
The MTA's safety program also would apply to the first phase of the 13.7-mile Pasadena light rail line. The Pasadena line is being built at street level, so will face similar traffic problems during its run through Lincoln Heights, Highland Park, South Pasadena and Pasadena. The line is being built by the Pasadena Blue Line Construction Authority, but is being financed and will be operated by the MTA.
During a hearing on Blue Line issues before the MTA's operations committee last week, Burke made a point of saying that the best chance of paying for grade separations comes during construction, because once a system is built the costs become prohibitive. Still, although she made it clear that she thinks grade separations would save lives, she said the MTA doesn't have money for grade separations on that system.
Residents along the proposed Pasadena route are becoming increasingly restive. Jim Leong, a retired businessman representing the Mount Washington Assn., pleaded for a grade separation during the operations committee hearing, although the Pasadena Blue Line Construction Authority has rejected the possibility of major changes to the project.
The Mount Washington Assn. is reconsidering its conditional support for the Pasadena rail line, in large part because of the Los Angeles line's safety record, Leong said. "When the Pasadena line was planned, we didn't have the experience of the Los Angeles Blue Line. Now we have 53 deaths. That is scaring some people," Leong said.
Richard Thorpe, chief executive officer of the Pasadena Blue Line Construction Authority, said he believes conditions on the Eastside are different from those on the Los Angeles-to-Long Beach line.
For one thing, the Pasadena line will not have freight trains running alongside its own trains, as does the Los Angeles line, Thorpe said. Nor will there be streets running parallel to the trains. Some of those who have studied the Los Angeles line believe the slowness of the Union Pacific freight trains frustrates motorists and causes them to take risks they might not ordinarily take. Left turns in front of trains are a leading contributor to Los Angeles Blue Line accidents.
MTA authorities have consistently argued that they believe the large number of deaths and injuries on the Los Angeles Blue Line is caused by risky behavior by pedestrians and motorists, who flout traffic laws and warning signals as they cross in front of trains.
An analysis of Blue Line accident records by The Times indicated that speed may be a contributor. It found that 85% of the deaths have occurred in the high-speed corridor, where trains go through intersections at 55 mph. An analysis comparing the Blue Line with light rail systems across the country found that the MTA trains operate at one of the highest average rates of speed. The Times also found that the last 18 deaths have all involved trains traveling south, whose speed tends to be higher through intersections.
MTA safety chief Paul Lennon, who put together the in-house analysis, said after the operations committee hearing that he is not recommending any changes in the speed of trains. He made it clear he still believes the main problem is that people go around closed crossing gates or ignore warning signals and horns. MTA investigations have held victims to have been at fault in all cases.
"The 55-mph speed I think is a very reasonable safe transit speed," he said. Influencing his belief is a fear that if the trains are slowed appreciably, the riders will return to cars. "My concern is that people might get off that train, find a $200 car and become a statistic someplace else. We are in the lifesaving business, as far as I am concerned."
Lennon said the MTA will continue to look into factors contributing to the string of accidents on the southbound tracks.
Burke said she is not satisfied with the steps Lennon is recommending. She said further steps must be taken "to prevent some of these accidents," but had no concrete proposals. Although the costs are prohibitive, she said, "I believe we have to look at some alternative for grade separation."
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