The deadliest crash in Metro history killed 9 and injured 80 people when a red line train collided into another near the Fort Totten Metro Station 5 years ago.
Three days after the crash, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found a faulty circuit on the track near the wreck. Investigators say the circuit failed to detect the moving train. The NTSB also recommended that Metro replace its 1000-series cars, which are nearly 40 years old, dating back to when the system began operations.
Since the disaster, Metro has improved its computerized train detection system and is in the process of replacing the oldest cars in the fleet. Under current operations, 1000-series cars no longer lead or take up the rear of a train. Metro has also increased the number of individuals on its safety team.
A bronze plaque has been placed at the Fort Totten station, honoring the victims of the crash.
The families along with city leaders broke ground on the Legacy Memorial Park on New Hampshire Avenue Northeast near the crash site. There will be nine sculptured artwork, planted trees and benches to honor the lives lost and the 12 children who lost their parents.
