Metro News Release

For immediate release: February 20, 2008

Blue Line riders face major delays after a report of an individual struck by a Blue Line train

Van Dorn Street and Franconia-Springfield Metrorail stations temporarily closed

The Van Dorn Street and Franconia-Springfield Metrorail stations were temporarily closed during today’s evening rush hour after witnesses reported that an individual was struck by a Blue Line train at the Van Dorn Metrorail station around 5:45 p.m. The six-car train was heading toward Largo Town Center.

Blue Line passengers faced major delays during the evening rush hour as emergency responders and Metro personnel investigated the incident.

Metro has set up a shuttle bus service to help passengers around the incident area. Shuttle buses are taking passengers from the King Street Metrorail station to the Van Dorn and Franconia-Springfield Street Metrorail stations.

The Van Dorn Street and Franconia-Springfield Metrorail stations were closed around 6 p.m. The Franconia-Springfield Metrorail station reopened just before 7 p.m. as Blue Line trains were able to share a single track between the Braddock Road and Franconia-Springfield Metrorail station. Trains were passing through, but not stopping at the Van Dorn Street Metrorail station.

Passengers can expect delays throughout the evening as Metro continues to investigate.

News release issued at 10:19 am, February 21, 2008.