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Metra BNSF Line halted after train hits pedestrian near Westmont
Trains stopped in Chicago suburbs as authorities investigate incident
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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Metra trains on the BNSF Line were halted in Chicago's western suburbs on Tuesday morning after a train struck a pedestrian near Westmont. Inbound and outbound BNSF trains were stopped around 7:30 a.m. as authorities investigated the incident, with trains only running as far west as Clarendon Hills.
Why it matters
Train incidents involving pedestrians can cause major disruptions to commuter rail service, impacting thousands of passengers. The BNSF Line is a crucial transportation artery connecting Chicago's western suburbs to the city, so any delays or shutdowns can have widespread effects.
The details
According to Metra, Train No. 1207 struck a pedestrian, leading to the halt of inbound and outbound BNSF trains near Westmont. Details about the pedestrian and their condition were not immediately available.
- The incident occurred just before 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
- Trains were still halted 45 minutes later, around 8:15 a.m.
The players
Metra
The commuter rail service that operates the BNSF Line and other rail lines in the Chicago metropolitan area.
BNSF Railway
The freight railroad company that owns the tracks used by Metra's BNSF Line.
What’s next
Metra is expected to provide updates on the status of the BNSF Line as the investigation into the incident continues.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the importance of safety measures and coordination between transit agencies and pedestrians to prevent such accidents, which can have significant impacts on commuter rail service and the communities it serves.
