SEPTA Train Catches Fire Near Ridley Park, Prompting Evacuations of Hundreds

A SEPTA train traveling from Philadelphia to Wilmington, Delaware, caught fire near Ridley Park on Wednesday morning, forcing the evacuation of approximately 350 passengers. The train, which was carrying passengers around 9:45 a.m., experienced a significant fire emergency when smoke started filling the train car. Emergency responders arrived on the scene to assist with the situation, and luckily, no serious injuries were reported among the passengers or crew. Passengers were evacuated onto the tracks and then taken to safety at a nearby location. SEPTA officials stated that the train was a part of the R2 line and that service was significantly affected as a result of this emergency. The fire was reportedly contained quickly, but it caused delays and cancellations of several other trains in the area. In a statement, a SEPTA spokesperson noted, “The safety of our passengers is our top priority, and we are grateful for the prompt response of our emergency services and the quick action taken by the train crew to ensure everyone was evacuated safely.” Investigators are looking into the cause of the fire, but at present, no further details have been released regarding the specific circumstances of the incident.