Calif. commuter train hits tree, plunges into creek

SUNOL, Calif. — An Altamont Corridor Express commuter train derailed Monday evening northeast of Fremont, Calif., injuring 14 passengers — four seriously — as the first car apparently slammed into a tree that had fallen across the tracks before plunging into a rain-swollen creek, the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

The front car of the ACE commuter train was half submerged in the fast-running Alameda Creek, its lights still on, as passengers were evacuated. The second car also derailed but remained upright.

Of those transported to hospitals, four passengers suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and five suffered minor injuries, according to fire officials. There were cases of head trauma and back pain, among other complaints. About 12 people were in the first car that derailed into the creek, according to the report. For the full story, click here.