Subway riders in Washington Heights experienced disruptions and danger yesterday when a fire broke out at the 191st Street station, leading to injuries and delays on the 1 train line. According to Gothamist, the FDNY responded to reports of smoke around 12:50 p.m., and the fire was under control within the hour; however, a total of 18 individuals suffered from injuries, with 16 hospitalized, and two refused medical attention.
The incident forced the suspension of 1 train service between 145th Street and 215th Street for some time and 'the MTA reported yesterday afternoon that their crews were busy replacing a broken rail at the 191st Street station', as a result of the fire, travelers were advised to seek alternative routes including the A and C trains or various bus services earlier but later in the day, the Metro-North option was no longer available, compounding the inconvenience for those navigating their commute across the city. The FDNY clarified that the majority of the injuries were minor and most were due to smoke inhalation.
In addition, ABC7 detailed that "thick gray smoke billowed out" of the station as a train came into contact with an object on the tracks, which met the third rail causing the smoke condition. Deputy Assistant Chief Mike Woods of the FDNY confirmed that despite the heavy smoke, there was "no active fire in the train."
After the smoke was cleared and the track repaired, subway services resumed normal operation, authorities do not believe the object was placed on the tracks with any malicious intent but will continue their investigation.
