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Metro Contractor Killed In Welding Accident On Red Line

October 6, 2013
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One contractor was killed and two WMATA employees were injured overnight in a welding accident that caused a fire in the Red Line tunnel between Union Station and Judiciary Square Metro stations.

Leaking hydraulic fluid on an underground vehicle was ignited by welding equipment, which caused an explosion and fire, according to a Metro spokesman to the Washington Post.

The contractor was providing welding services in the tunnel when the incident occurred shortly after midnight Sunday. He was transported to a local hospital where he died of his injuries. Two WMATA employees also were transported to local hospitals and are being treated for serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

Metro officials are investigating the cause of the accident, and have notified the Tri-state Oversight Committee and the National Transportation Safety Board.

Track work was suspended on the Red Line after the incident. Work will continue to restore the track after all safety briefings and on-site investigations have been completed.

Free shuttle buses will continue to operate between Dupont Circle and NoMa-Gallaudet stations until rail service is restored. Normal service will resume before the Monday morning commute.

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