Trial set to begin in 2015 Metro-North crash lawsuit

The crash occurred in 2015 when a commuter train struck a car at the Commerce Street crossing in the Town of Mount Pleasant.

News 12 Staff

Jun 3, 2024, 4:15 PM

Updated 201 days ago

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A trial stemming from a massive civil lawsuit is set to begin Tuesday nearly nine and a half years after the worst crash in Metro-North railroad's history.
Jury selection will begin Tuesday State Supreme Court in White Plains.
The crash occurred in 2015 when a commuter train struck a car at the Commerce Street crossing in the Town of Mount Pleasant. Following the collision, the third rail of the tracks pierced through the car and train, causing a fire. The operator of the car and five train passengers were killed, and numerous other passengers were injured.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) concluded that the operator of the car caused the accident by driving onto the tracks. However, the NTSB also cited a design flaw in the third rail as a contributing factor.
Nearly two dozen plaintiffs have filed lawsuits against multiple defendants, including the MTA, Metro-North, and the owners of the track and underlying land.
The trial is expected to address these claims and seek accountability for the tragic incident.