Update at 2:45 p.m. — Orange and Silver line service will remain suspended between Ballston and West Falls Church through at least Saturday, Metro said this afternoon.
(Updated at 10:35 a.m.) Two people were evaluated for injuries after a “minor” train derailment at the East Falls Church Metro station.
Orange and Silver Line service remains shut down between West Falls Church and Ballston as a result of the derailment, and will remain shut down through Friday evening, according to Metro. Shuttle buses are running between the stations.
About 75 passengers were on the train when the derailment happened, around 6:30 a.m. Train cars remained upright and the passengers were able to offload “without further incident,” according to Metro.
The derailment happened as Metro’s “SafeTrack” maintenance work was being performed on one of the tracks between Ballston and East Falls Church.
Photo (top) courtesy John Sonderman
@ARLnowDOTcom What's going on at EFC Metro? Someone said it sounded like either a gunshot or explosion.
— Juliana (@LadyJazzSinger) July 29, 2016
#FollowUp Train derailment is at the platform & described as minor, passengers being held on the train until they can be safely offloaded.
— Arlington Fire (@ACFDPIO) July 29, 2016
#FollowUp Approx. 75 people are on the train. The train is in the process of being unloaded now, with no passengers reporting injuries.
— Arlington Fire (@ACFDPIO) July 29, 2016
#FinalUpdate EFC- 2 passengers have been evaluated for minor injuries. Scene has been transferred to #wmata. FD units going in service.
— Arlington Fire (@ACFDPIO) July 29, 2016
EFC: All passengers offloaded w/o further incident. Two cars are derailed, remaining upright and in line. Use alternate travel modes #wmata
— Metro Transit Police (@MetroTransitPD) July 29, 2016
Orange Line: No train service btwn W Falls Church & Ballston due to a train derailment at E Falls Church. Bus shuttle established.
— Metrorail Info (@Metrorailinfo) July 29, 2016
CORRECTION: @ffxconnector offering additional shuttles McLean-Ballston, not Wiehle-Ballston. Sorry for any confusion. 8:56a #wmata
— Metrorail Info (@Metrorailinfo) July 29, 2016
I-66 still very slow both ways for several miles before East Falls Church Metro station where derailment occurred. Parallel routes OK.
— Dr. Gridlock (@drgridlock) July 29, 2016
Recent Stories

If you have been thinking about buying your first home or haven’t owned one in the last three years, THIS IS FOR YOU!
In the DMV area, it can be difficult to save the downpayment necessary for you to get into your own home. We have a solution. The Funder’s Summit!
We have assembled a summit with different municipalities to tell you how to access their funds for your home purchase.
Lenders will be present to assist you with either a pre-approval on the spot or free advice on how to get in a position to be approved.
Discover Healing and Renewed Well-Being through Psychotherapy
Life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving us with feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. That’s where psychotherapy can make a profound difference. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists is here to guide you on a journey towards emotional and mental well-being.
Why Choose Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy offers a safe, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Whether you’re facing a specific issue or seeking personal growth, our therapists are here to support you. We believe in the power of conversation, empathy, and understanding to help you gain insights, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life.
New Moms Groups forming now!
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or you just had your first baby, we want to meet YOU! All those feelings you’re having are NORMAL and it’s not just you. Please don’t isolate yourself – that’s quicksand.
Mamistad groups are
Equality Arlington Coming Out Party
Come celebrate National Coming Out Day at Equality Arlington’s Coming Out Party on Wednesday, October 11th from 7-8:30 PM at Busboys and Poets (Shirlington)! Senator Adam Ebbin is our featured speaker and we will have Arlingtonians sharing what coming out