1 killed, 23 injured after tree falls onto NJ Transit Light Rail train in Mansfield Township
BURLINGTON COUNTY, New Jersey -- A train operator was killed and 23 others injured when a tree fell onto a New Jersey Transit Light Rail Train in Mansfield Township, New Jersey on Monday morning.
It happened just after 6 a.m. on the New Jersey River Line Light Rail track near US 130.
The train was traveling southbound from Trenton when it struck a tree just north of Roebling Station.
The train operator was killed, according to officials.
The train had 42 customers on board at the time of the incident. Of the passengers, 23 sustained non-life-threatening injuries, which are said to be mostly minor. The other 19 were accommodated by a bus.
Governor Phil Murphy released a statement on social media saying,
"I have been briefed on an accident on the @NJTRANSIT_RL earlier today in which the light rail struck a tree on the tracks, leading to the death of the train operator and injuring passengers. An investigation is underway. Our prayers are with all affected by this tragic incident."
NJ Transit River Line is suspended in both directions between Florence and Trenton. Substitute bus service is being provided.
Route 130 southbound between Burlington and Kinkora roads is also closed.
There is a staging area for the families of those injured at the River Front Motel.
New Jersey Transit Police are on scene and investigating.
ALSO READ: Bassoon worth $40,000 stolen in Brooklyn
----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
