NJ Transit operator killed, passengers injured after train hits tree

( WPHL ) – An NJ Transit train operator is dead and nearly two dozen passengers are injured after a train struck a tree on the tracks Monday morning.

The accident happened just after 6 a.m. on the New Jersey River Line Light Rail track near US 130 as the train was traveling southbound from Trenton towards the Roebling Station in Mansfield Township, New Jersey.

There were a total of 42 passengers on the train at the time of the incident, according to the Associated Press. At least 23 passengers were injured in the crash, News 2’s sister station WPIX reported, citing a spokesperson for NJ Transit.

Burlington County police confirmed to Nexstar’s WPHL that at least 18 of the train’s passengers had been transported to a hospital for treatment and evaluation.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed the incident is currently under investigation.

“I have been briefed on an accident on the @NJTRANSIT_RL earlier today in which the light rail struck a tree on the tracks, leading to the death of the train operator and injuring passengers. An investigation is underway. Our prayers are with all affected by this tragic incident,” Murphy in a post on X.

A stretch of the NJ Transit River Line was suspended in both directions Monday morning. Bus service was being provided in the meantime.

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