WEST PALM BEACH — A Brightline train collided with a fire engine from the Delray Beach Fire Rescue on Saturday morning, resulting in injuries to at least 15 people, including three firefighters who were hospitalized. This severe incident unfolded just before 10:50 AM at the intersection of East Atlantic Avenue and Southeast 1st Avenue, as confirmed by Fire Rescue Chief Ronald Martin.
According to reports, the fire engine was allegedly responding to another car crash when the collision occurred. Eyewitness accounts indicate chaos erupted as debris flew inside the train and screams filled the air. Randy Fitzgerald, who was on the train, described the scene as “total chaos,” stating, “I see debris flying out the window, glasses shattering, people are screaming, things are falling from the ceiling.”
Following the impact, three firefighters were transported to Delray Beach Trauma Center, two initially reported to be in serious condition, but were later stabilized. City officials stated they have ensured no fatalities were reported, with the total number of injuries now confirmed at 15. Both the fire engine's crew and train passengers received care for various minor injuries.
The Brightline Safety and Security Team emphasized the importance of safety at rail crossings on social media, stating, “Railroad safety is a community-wide effort. For everyone’s safety, never drive around crossing gates when they are down.” The response from both fire officials and trains on the safety protocols surrounding the incident is now under scrutiny.
Following the crash, Delray Beach Police confirmed the intersection was closed to traffic as emergency crews worked at the scene, advising drivers to use alternate routes. A video from Brightline captured the moment of impact, showing at least one crossing gate reportedly lowered as the fire truck crossed the tracks.
Investigators from the Delray Beach Police Department, Brightline officials, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are diligently reviewing the circumstances of the incident. This review will determine how the fire truck came to be on the tracks during this time, especially since there was conflicting information about whether the guardrail was functioning correctly during the incident.
Despite the accident's severity, details remain sparse. The City of Delray Beach has placed four employees from the Fire Rescue Department on paid leave as they investigate whether proper protocols were followed during the call leading to the crash. Assistant Chief Kevin Green and Division Chief Todd Lynch are among those on leave pending the results of the internal investigation.
Adding to the situation, city officials have faced criticism for being less transparent during the crisis. Many residents believe the public deserves clear answers about the incident. Kevin Keller, a local resident, voiced his concern, saying, “I don’t know how a vehicle was on the train track, especially not a fire truck.” Several community members are demanding accountability and swift communication from the city administration.
The crash on the train tracks raises broader questions about safety at these intersections. Witnesses and local leaders call for discussions on how to improve safety measures for both emergency responders and train operations, particularly at busy intersections like the one on Atlantic Avenue.
This incident reflects the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols at railway crossings, where the potential for such disastrous accidents exists, directly impacting the community. Authorities are expected to hold discussions on this matter as investigations progress, seeking solutions to prevent future occurrences.
While investigations continue and the injured recover, many residents are mindful of the trauma experienced by those involved and are coming together to support each other during this tragic episode. Community members express hope for healing and improvement of safety measures, alongside pressing officials for greater accountability. It is clear this incident has left lasting repercussions not just for those directly affected, but for the entire community of Delray Beach.