Freight train derailment disrupts NJ Transit rail service

About 20 rail cars carrying containers derailed early Tuesday, February 18, 2025, on the Raritan Valley Line between Cranford and Union Station, no injuries were reported. NJ Transit has assigned buses to the area to transport customers to Newark Penn Station.
About 20 rail cars carrying containers derailed early Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, on the Raritan Valley Line between Cranford and Union Station, no injuries were reported. NJ Transit has assigned buses to the area to transport customers to Newark Penn Station. Photo credit Thomas P. Costello / USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

CRANFORD, N.J. (1010 WINS) – A freight train derailment in Cranford, New Jersey, caused disruptions to NJ Transit service Tuesday morning, leading to suspended rail service and substitute bus transportation.

The derailment happened at around 7 a.m. between Cranford and Union Stations, impacting about 20 freight cars.

No injuries were reported and there were no hazardous materials aboard the train.

Thomas P. Costello / USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Photo credit Thomas P. Costello / USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

However, service between Cranford and Newark Penn Station was suspended as crews worked to clear the area.

NJ Transit has since resumed limited train service. Beginning with the 11:46 a.m. departure from Raritan Station, hourly trains will operate between Raritan and Cranford Stations.

Thomas P. Costello / USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
About 20 rail cars carrying containers derailed early Tuesday, February 18, 2025, on the Raritan Valley Line between Cranford and Union Station, no injuries were reported. NJ Transit has assigned buses to the area to transport customers to Newark Penn Station. Photo credit Thomas P. Costello / USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Passengers traveling beyond Cranford must use substitute bus service to reach Newark Penn Station, with stops at Roselle Park and Union Stations.

Officials estimate that normal rail service should resume within a few days.

Passengers are encouraged to check NJ Transit’s website and social media for real-time updates as recovery efforts continue.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Thomas P. Costello / USA TODAY Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images