Amtrak train disabled after tree falls onto tracks near Port Costa

PORT COSTA — An Amtrak train struck a tree that fell onto tracks just southeast of town Tuesday afternoon, authorities said.

In an emailed statement, Amtrak spokesperson Olivia Irvin said train No. 534 became disabled after making contract with the tree around 2:50 p.m., but remained upright and able to operate.

Irvin said that there were no reports of any injuries among about 55 passengers or crew aboard the train. She added that an adjacent track was open and that service would single-track through the location, not far the the Martinez station.

Other Amtrak trains were held out of the service in the area while first responders arrived on scene and assessed the situation, according to social-media posts.

Bay Area Rapid Transit said it would offer mutual-aid transit for affected Amtrak riders who contacted station agents between BART’s Richmond and Coliseum stations in both directions until 10 p.m., and County Connection said its buses would honor Amtrak riders’ fares until further notice.

Check back for updates.

@FireCrockett is responding to a derailed Amtrak train 1/2 mile east of Port Costa. Initial reports of no injuries.

— CrockettCarquinezFire (@FireCrockett) March 21, 2023

@FireCrockett has cleared the scene. 55 passengers on a derailed @Amtrak train caused by a down tree. No injuries. Train derailed just southeast of Port Costa. No further details on rail closures or delays at this time. https://t.co/RzV81qP7Gy

— CrockettCarquinezFire (@FireCrockett) March 21, 2023

@JDotPratt32 Hello. Our system is showing that train 534 is stopped due to a downed tree 14 miles east of Richmond. We apologize for the delay.

— Capitol Corridor (@CapitolCorridor) March 21, 2023

Please be advised that because of the Amtrak derailment, we are offering a free ride to anyone
with a valid Amtrak Ticket to any Bart Station until further notice.

— County Connection (@cccta) March 21, 2023

We are aware Capitol Corridor and Amtrak is experiencing mass delays due to a derailment involving a tree near Rodeo. Mutual aid has been granted for impacted Amtrak riders between Richmond and Coliseum stations in both directions until 8pm today. Please speak to station agent. https://t.co/oq0RkKT1Af

— BART (@SFBART) March 21, 2023

Mutual aid for impacted Amtrak/Capitol Corridor riders have been extended to 10 pm. If you are one, please speak to a station agent.

— BART (@SFBART) March 21, 2023

Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.