METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Up to 1,400 passengers rescued from GO Transit train

The train was stuck for several hours before the rescue efforts began.

July 9, 2013
Up to 1,400 passengers rescued from GO Transit train

Wikimedia Commons photo by GTD Aquitaine

2 min to read


Wikimedia Commons photo by GTD Aquitaine

TORONTO — Following torrential rains that caused flooding in the area, emergency responders rescued up to 1,400 passengers who were stranded on a GO Train that was stuck in high waters, according to Global News. For the full story, click here.

The train was stuck for several hours before the rescue efforts began, with several news agencies, including the National Post, documenting the rescue efforts. For the full story, click here.

Ad Loading...

RELATED: To view video of the rescue efforts, click here.


The following is a statement released by Metrolinx President/CEO Bruce McCuaig:

"Last night, Toronto experienced a severe and sudden rain storm during the afternoon and evening. The record-breaking amount of rainfall caused serious power outages and flooding throughout the region, including the tracks on the Richmond Hill line just north of Union Station. Passengers were stranded on a train due to quickly rising water levels. I appreciate how patient and understanding customers were in spite of their ordeal and am very pleased to report that there were no reports of injuries.

We sincerely regret that our customers had this unfortunate experience and will be taking steps to reimburse them for damaged property.

I am also very grateful to all of the GO staff, the emergency responders, the TTC and Office of Emergency Management who worked throughout the night to get people home safely and resume service. Their calm and professional response to this unprecedented weather event is much appreciated.

Despite last night's weather, GO Transit is operating service on all seven of our train lines and buses across our system. However, we are experiencing some train delays and cancellations and the commute remains difficult as the city continues with the cleanup.  Crews have been working non-stop to repair areas where flooding has caused damage to track and infrastructure.  I would also like to extend my thanks to the crews who have been working to undertake repairs as quickly as possible.

We are encouraging customers to stay home today or to consider seeking alternative travel arrangements, if at all possible. If you must travel, please be sure to check on service updates at gotransit.com before you leave home.

Our goal is to get our customers safely to their destination and accommodate as many passengers as we can.

Once again, I appreciate everyone's patience and hard work."

More Rail

MTA and ASCE officials at plaque celebrating earning the New York Metropolitan Historic Civil Engineering Landmark designation.
Railby StaffMay 15, 2026

New York MTA's Hugh L. Carey Tunnel Lands ASCE Landmark Status

The Hugh L. Carey Tunnel is the fourth MTA-owned property to be granted landmark status by the ASCE.

Read More →
Cover photo for METROspectives with HDR's Brian Buchanan
Managementby Alex RomanMay 15, 2026

Managing Complexity: HDR’s Brian Buchanan on Delivering Major Transit Programs

HDR’s transit program management lead discusses the challenges of overseeing large capital projects, adapting to cost and supply chain pressures, and the capabilities agencies need to build for the future.

Read More →
Operation Lifesaver rail safety grant graphic displayed over railroad tracks, highlighting federal funding for crossing safety and trespass prevention campaigns.
Railby News/Media ReleaseMay 14, 2026

Operation Lifesaver Awards Nearly $198,000 in Rail Safety Grants

Operation Lifesaver and the FHWA awarded nearly $198,000 in grants to 10 state programs for rail safety education campaigns focused on crossing safety, trespass prevention, and public awareness initiatives.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
STV's Garo Hovnanian
Managementby Alex RomanMay 13, 2026

The Expanding Role of Advisory in Transit Delivery

Garo Hovnanian explores how agencies can better navigate competing priorities, strengthen decision-making, and prepare for a future shaped by electrification and emerging mobility.

Read More →
An image of empty railroad tracks in Minnesota with white text reading "Federal Railroad Administration Finalizes Rail Rules Aimed at Efficiency and Safety."
Railby Staff and News ReportsMay 13, 2026

Federal Railroad Administration Finalizes Rail Rules Aimed at Efficiency and Safety

See what deregulatory rail rules were finalized to reduce outdated requirements, support innovation, and streamline rail operations without compromising safety.

Read More →
An NJ TRANSIT bus.
Managementby StaffMay 13, 2026

NJ TRANSIT to Expand Cleanliness, Safety, and Accessibility Under New Action Plan

The plan includes investments in cleaner vehicles and upgraded stations, NJT LiveView to provide real-time GPS tracking of train and light rail service, enhanced safety initiatives through a new Real Time Crime Center, and the debut of a redesigned NJ TRANSIT mobile app.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
METRO Biz Briefs cover photo

STV Launches Power Practice and More in Biz Briefs

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from SilverRide, Complete Coach Works, and more.

Read More →
Local, Federal, State, and LA Metro officials at the opening of the D Line.
Railby StaffMay 10, 2026

LA Metro Opens D Line Extension

The only new subway opening in the US this year, the D Line Extension represents one of Metro’s top transit priorities and a historic milestone for Los Angeles, with Sections 2 and 3 set to open in 2027.

Read More →
Governor Moore in a ceremony placing the last track
Railby StaffMay 8, 2026

Maryland Governor Installs Final Purple Line Rail During Tour

The moment marks the completion of 193,100 feet of track linking Prince George’s and Montgomery counties.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
PATCO's New Control Center
Managementby StaffMay 7, 2026

PATCO Opens New Operations Control Center

The new center serves as the central hub for monitoring and managing PATCO train operations, communications, customer service coordination, incident response, and overall operational oversight across the transit system.

Read More →