Subway service on the F and G lines in Brooklyn was significantly disrupted Tuesday morning after a train struck debris on the tracks, leading to electrical explosions and a smoke condition. The incident, which occurred around 9:30 a.m., prompted an emergency response and forced the suspension of service on major portions of both lines, affecting thousands of commuters.
According to transit sources, a D train operating on the F line tracks hit a piece of concrete near the Jay St.-MetroTech station. The contact with the third rail caused a 600-volt electrical arc, resulting in loud noises and smoke. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
Key Takeaways
- Service on the F and G subway lines was partially suspended in Brooklyn on Tuesday morning.
- The disruption was caused by a train hitting concrete debris on the third rail near Jay St.-MetroTech station.
- The incident resulted in electrical arcing and smoke, prompting an FDNY response.
- All passengers were safely evacuated at the next station, and no injuries were reported.
- F trains were rerouted onto the D line to Coney Island during the suspension.
Details of the Track Incident
The disruption began at approximately 9:30 a.m. when a southbound D train, which was running along the F line route, encountered debris on the tracks. Sources familiar with the event stated the object was spalled concrete, which had likely broken away from the tunnel structure.
When the train's power collection equipment made contact with the debris on the electrified third rail, it triggered a series of electrical arcs. This created loud popping sounds and a significant amount of smoke, which was reported at the Jay St.-MetroTech station.
Understanding the Third Rail
The third rail in the New York City subway system is a critical component that supplies power to the trains. It carries 600 volts of direct current, and any foreign object making contact can cause a short circuit, leading to dangerous electrical arcing and potential fires.
Emergency Response and Passenger Safety
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) was dispatched to the Jay St.-MetroTech station following reports of smoke and loud noises. An FDNY spokesman confirmed that fire crews responded and extinguished a small garbage fire on the tracks, likely ignited by the electrical sparks.
Despite the alarming sounds and smoke, the train involved in the incident remained operational. It proceeded to the next stop, the Bergen Street station, where transit personnel safely discharged all passengers from the train. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident or the subsequent evacuation.
One passenger who was on the train described the event on the social media platform X.
"I was on this train that sh-t blew up," the user posted shortly after the incident, highlighting the startling nature of the electrical explosions.
Widespread Service Disruptions for Commuters
The incident led to immediate and extensive service changes that impacted morning commuters across two boroughs. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced significant suspensions to ensure the safety of the system while crews investigated the scene.
Specific Line Suspensions
The service changes included:
- F Train: Service was suspended in both directions between the W. 4th St.-Washington Square station in Manhattan and the Coney Island-Stillwell Av station in Brooklyn.
- G Train: Service was suspended south of the Bedford-Nostrand Aves. station.
Navigating the Reroutes
To accommodate affected passengers, the MTA implemented reroutes. F trains were directed to run on the D line tracks between Manhattan and Coney Island. Commuters were advised to check the MTA website and service alerts for alternative travel options and allow for extra travel time.
Investigation and Restoration Efforts
Following the passenger evacuation at Bergen Street, the affected train was held at the station for an initial inspection by maintenance crews. It was later moved to a rail yard for a more thorough examination and necessary repairs.
MTA work crews were dispatched to the area near Jay St.-MetroTech to inspect the tracks, clear any remaining debris, and assess the condition of the third rail and surrounding infrastructure. The priority was to ensure the track was safe for service to resume as quickly as possible.
Transit authorities did not immediately provide a timeline for the full restoration of F and G line service, as crews needed to complete their safety inspections. The incident highlights the challenges of maintaining an aging infrastructure while serving millions of riders daily.
