Trains Shut Down Due to Computer Malfunction

There was a failure of a device in the information management system network.  As a result, controllers in the system’s Rail Operations Control Center could not detect the location of trains in the network or remotely control switches.  Trains came to a complete stop stranding commuters in trains and the stations throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. Forty four trains were halted for about 40 minutes.  Trains were also briefly halted about 10 hours later.

Forty four trains were stopped for about 40 minutes.  Passengers were stranded in trains and stations throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia.