Freight Train Derailment Near Chicago Ridge Disrupts Metra Service

Derailment closes roads and delays trains during morning commute

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A freight train derailment near Chicago Ridge, Illinois has disrupted Metra SWS commuter rail service on Wednesday morning. The derailment has led to the closure of Central Avenue between 103rd and 111th Streets, as well as Ridgeland Avenue near the incident site. No injuries have been reported so far, but the disruption is expected to last until around 8:30 a.m. as crews work to clear the scene.

Why it matters

Train derailments can cause significant disruptions to regional transportation networks, especially during peak commute times. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining safe and reliable rail infrastructure to support the daily travel needs of Chicago-area residents.

The details

According to Metra, the freight train derailment is impacting trains scheduled to leave Chicago from 6:30 a.m. to around 8:30 a.m. Central Avenue is closed between 103rd and 111th Streets, and Ridgeland Avenue near the derailment site is also shut down as crews work to clear the scene.

  • The freight train derailment occurred on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
  • Metra service disruptions are expected from 6:30 a.m. to around 8:30 a.m.

The players

Metra

The commuter rail system serving the Chicago metropolitan area.

Kris Habermehl

A reporter providing updates on the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Central Avenue is closed between 103rd and 111th. Ridgeland Avenue, close to where the derailment took place, is also closed.”

— Kris Habermehl, Reporter (CBS News Chicago)

What’s next

Metra officials have not provided a specific timeline for when normal service is expected to resume, but they are working to clear the derailment site as quickly as possible to minimize disruptions to the morning commute.

The takeaway

This freight train derailment underscores the importance of maintaining robust rail infrastructure and emergency response protocols to ensure the reliable and safe transportation of people and goods throughout the Chicago region.