3 pedestrians hit, killed by Amtrak train; service suspended between Philadelphia, New York

Amtrak service between Philadelphia and New York was halted Thursday evening after three people were fatally struck by a train near Bristol Station in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, officials said. 

According to Bristol Borough Police Department, the three people were struck just before 6 p.m. by an Amtrak Acela train traveling south towards Philadelphia.

In a separate statement, Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, whose district includes Bristol, said the train was traveling from Boston to Richmond, Virginia, at the time. He said that there were 236 passengers and crew members aboard at the time, none of whom were hurt.

“Amtrak is working with the Bristol Township Police Department as they investigate the incident, and train service between Philadelphia and New York has been temporarily suspended,” Fitzpatrick said.  

SEPTA service on the West Trenton line was also suspended until further notice. 

In a social media post a little after 7 p.m., Amtrak said a “lengthy delay” was expected, with multiple local agencies working the incident. 

“We apologize for the inconvenience and will provide an update as details become available,” Amtrak said. “We appreciate your patience.”

SEPTA said riders can find alternate service suggestions on its website. 

This is the second time this week of a fatal pedestrian collision involving an Amtrak train. On Wednesday, a person was fatally struck by an Amtrak train near Cornwells Heights station, which is also in Bucks County.