A Chicago train operator had alcohol in his system during a crash in 2023, according to officials. Federal investigators revealed that the operator of a Chicago commuter train, involved in a crash almost a year ago, had alcohol in his system at the time of the incident. The crash occurred when the train collided with a slow-moving snow plow on the tracks on November 16th, injuring 38 people, including the operator.
A report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicated that a hospital test showed the 47-year-old operator had a blood-alcohol level of 0.06% about an hour after the crash, as reported by the Chicago Tribune. This level was higher than the federal limit of 0.02%, but below the state limit in Illinois of 0.08%. A subsequent test at a federal laboratory revealed a blood-alcohol level of 0.048%, the report detailed.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) stated that the NTSB had prohibited them from commenting on the ongoing investigation. The NTSB report also highlighted that the operator, hired in 2021, had never undergone a random drug or alcohol test during his tenure. The operator reported to investigators that the train’s brakes were not functioning properly in the moments leading up to the crash.
NTSB officials had initially been focusing on a potential design issue with the train’s braking system in the aftermath of the crash. The preliminary findings suggested that the train was traveling at 26.9 mph (43.3 kph) when it collided with the snow plow, which was on the tracks for winter season training purposes. The rail instructor working on the snow plow mentioned that he believed a collision was unavoidable, despite the operator’s efforts to slow down the train.
The instructor, who sustained injuries in the crash, acknowledged the operator’s actions in slowing the train, potentially preventing further casualties. He described the operator as a hero, crediting him with saving lives by attempting to control the speeding train. NTSB officials continue to investigate the crash and its contributing factors.
In summary, the revelation of alcohol in the train operator’s system during the 2023 Chicago crash has raised concerns about safety protocols and the importance of employee monitoring in public transportation systems. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for stringent regulations and regular testing to ensure the safety of passengers and personnel in such settings.