STAMFORD, CT — A significant fire involving a diesel train engine erupted near the East Main Street rail overpasses in Stamford late Tuesday evening. The Stamford Combined 911 & Dispatch Center received the first reports of the incident at 10:56 p.m., involving a freight train positioned just south and west of the bridge.
First responders arrived quickly to a scene of heavy flames engulfing one of the train’s engines, with several freight cars on the bridge. The train operator reported an explosion, which led to the immediate halt of the train. Despite the dramatic circumstances, no injuries were reported among train personnel, firefighters, or MTA staff.
Traffic around East Main Street and Myrtle Avenue was closed to support firefighting efforts, which included three engine companies, a truck company, a rescue company, and a RIT team, with an additional engine later added for enhanced water supply. The fire, involving diesel and oils, necessitated the response of the Stamford Fire Hazardous Materials Team and environmental teams from the state and Metro North.
The fire was quickly brought under control after confirming that all rail traffic was stopped and power to the overhead lines was cut. Stamford EMS was present to provide medical support, though no injuries occurred. The MTA initiated an investigation into the cause of the fire, supported by additional lighting from Stamford’s Mechanical Division.
Normal train service was temporarily disrupted but resumed shortly after the incident with no reported injuries.
