A tragic incident occurred early Friday morning when an unidentified man was struck and killed by a No. 7 train at the Junction Boulevard station, located above Roosevelt Avenue in Corona, Queens. The collision, which took place around 7:07 a.m., led to significant disruptions to train services during the busy morning rush hour, affecting commuters traveling between Flushing-Main Street and Queensboro Plaza.
According to reports, the victim was already positioned on the tracks when the Manhattan-bound train collided with him on the express tracks. Emergency services, including the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), responded to the scene shortly after the accident. Despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene by Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
The NYPD is currently conducting an investigation, though preliminary findings suggest no criminality is expected. An NYPD spokeswoman confirmed this, noting, "No criminality is suspected." This assertion appears to indicate the tragic nature of the event rather than any foul play involved.
Train services on the 7 line faced extensive delays due to the incident. Following the collision, service between Flushing-Main Street and Queensboro Plaza was disrupted for more than an hour, with some trains rerouted around the station. Numerous commuters found their travel plans altered, as the disruptions continued even after the incident had been cleared.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) confirmed service was partially suspended, and advised commuters to seek alternative routes, including other subway lines such as the E, F, M, N, R, and W trains for access to and from Manhattan. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) also stepped in to assist, cross-honoring MetroCard holders and OMNY users traveling between Flushing-Main Street and Penn Station or Grand Central.
Officials reported the 7 line resumed regular service around 8:07 a.m., but notable residual delays lingered throughout the morning commute. The MTA later released updates on recovery efforts, stating, "The No. 7 line is still running local with delays."
Witnesses at the scene indicated the man appeared to be on the tracks prior to being struck. The specific circumstances leading to him being on the tracks remain under investigation. Local transit authorities are working diligently to gather more information and understand the events leading up to the incident.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present at subway stations, particularly during rush hour when trains are running frequently and at high speeds. While investigations continue, authorities encourage anyone struggling with mental health issues to seek help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline encourages people to call 988, providing 24/7 access to free support and local resources.
The 7 train line is known for its heavy ridership and is one of the primary transit routes connecting various neighborhoods of Queens to Manhattan. It operates daily, serving thousands of commuters who rely on its schedule to get to work, school, or personal matters.
Incidents like this evoke compassion for the victim and their family, alongside concerns for public safety at transit stations. The NYPD, MTA, and community members are all reminded of the importance of vigilance around the tracks, especially during busy hours when accidents are most likely to occur.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact the NYPD as they gather more details about what exactly transpired before the tragedy. Until then, the heavy presence of law enforcement and transit officials at the Junction Boulevard station speaks to the gravity of the situation and the community’s response to such unfortunate events.
The authorities continue to monitor the situation, reinforcing safety protocols throughout the transit system to prevent future occurrences. Together, they work to support families affected by such unfortunate incidents, reminding everyone of the resources available for those who may be struggling with their mental health or personal crises.