Trains Collide in Washington D.C.

I haven't been able to bring myself to read all the details about the crash that killed at least seven people yesterday during rush hour. Maybe this event hits home more because in just 20 days, I'll actually be in D.C., probably using the Metro myself.

How does something like this happen? Aren't there sensors and things that are supposed to prevent something like this? Two trains on the same track during rush hour. One train was just sitting there, not moving, and the other came up on it. It hit so hard that the compartment of the train was 75% compressed.

I can't imagine what it must have been like for the passengers of the train. One moment you're moving along, heading home after a long day at work. Then suddenly the trains collide and you go flying from your seat. It must have been absolutely terrifying.

They are saying the death toll is seven, but it's unclear whether or not that is a final report/count. In some news reports, they have announced they were uncertain if there were more bodies inside the compressed train because they had not been able to cut it open to see if there were bodies inside. I understand that treating the injured takes priority, but hopefully they have taken the time to find out, for the victim's families' sake. It's such a tragic thing.

Between plane crashes and now trains in the news, it really brings it home that anything can happen at any time. Even somewhere that you feel you are safe. I have ridden on subways and Metro type trains more than two dozen times at least and have never once worried about crashing into another train. It certainly doesn't happen that often thank God. It's just scary to realize that it's even possible.

My heart goes out to the victim's and their families.