Subway Derails in Manhattan, Causing Power Outage and Chaos; Dozens Hurt

A subway derailment and power outage near the 125th Street station in Harlem has suspended service on multiple train lines, stranding terrified riders in darkened, smoke-filled cars for two hours in some cases.

At least 34 people had injuries including smoke inhalation, though all were expected to be OK, fire officials said. About half of the victims were taken to hospitals while others were assessed at the scene.

MTA Chairman Joe Lhota said at a news briefing shortly before noon Tuesday that the brakes on the southbound A train somehow went into emergency mode, propelling the first two cars of the train into a concrete wall and off the tracks. Sparks erupted, fueled by garbage and other debris along the subway tracks, which caused the smoke condition, Lhota said.

The derailed train was evacuated, along with two other trains -- one ahead of it and one behind it. The train derailed very close to the 125th Street station, Lhota said, and some riders were able to get off on the platform. Other panicked straphangers looked for alternate means of escape.

http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Subway-Delays-A-B-C-D-Train-Power-Outage-125-Street-431082593.html