Chaos of Washington Train Derailment Comes Through in 911 Calls

Several victims of the Amtrak train derailment south of Seattle called for 911 for help, whimpering in pain, bleeding from head injuries and dazed by the enormity of the crash.

Dozens of 911 call recordings released by South Sound 911 Dispatch provide a vivid account of the Dec. 18 wreck from survivors and witnesses.

The passenger train barreled through a curve at 78 mph in a 30 mph zone, hurtling off both sides of the tracks and toppling some cars onto a highway below.

Authorities say it could take more than a year to understand how the train carrying 85 passengers and crew members derailed as it made its first run along a faster route.

Related:

• Amtrak Didn’t Wait for System That Could’ve Prevented Washington Wreck
• Amtrak in Washington 50 Mph Over Speed Limit Before Deadly Derailment
• Fatal Amtrak Crash in Washington State Stirs Safety Debate in D.C.
• Amtrak Plunges on Washington Highway Resulting in Deaths, Injuries

Topics Washington