MBTA Commuter Service Disrupted by Low-Speed Derailment

No injuries reported after single-car derailment near South Station

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:54am

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A Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) commuter train experienced a low-speed derailment near Boston's South Station on Friday, March 13, 2026, leading to significant disruptions and cancellations across multiple commuter rail lines serving the area.

Why it matters

The MBTA is a vital transportation system for the Boston metropolitan area, and any disruptions to commuter rail service can have widespread impacts on workers, businesses, and the overall economy. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining safe and reliable public transit infrastructure.

The details

One coach car on a Providence/Stoughton Line train derailed as it was departing South Station around 3:20 p.m. Approximately 350 passengers were on board at the time, but no injuries were reported. Crews escorted passengers back to the station. As of 8:35 p.m., the MBTA had cancelled 13 trains across five commuter rail lines serving South Station, with another 15 trains cancelled earlier. All other trains were experiencing delays.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, March 13, 2026 around 3:20 p.m.
  • As of 8:35 p.m. on March 13, 2026, the MBTA had cancelled 13 trains across multiple commuter rail lines.

The players

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)

The public agency responsible for operating public transportation services in the Greater Boston area, including commuter rail, subway, and bus systems.

Keolis Commuter Services

The private company that operates the MBTA's commuter rail network under contract.

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What they’re saying

“HAPPENING NOW: The Friday evening commute is being impacted by a train derailment near Boston's South Station.”

— NBC10 Boston (Twitter)

What’s next

Authorities will investigate the cause of the derailment and work to restore full commuter rail service as soon as possible.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of maintaining reliable and safe public transportation infrastructure in major metropolitan areas like Boston, where commuter rail is a vital lifeline for workers and the local economy.