D.C. Metro Train Crash Investigation: Findings Could Affect Rail Operations Nationwide

An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) into the June 22 crash of two Washington, D.C., Metro trains is now focused on electrical circuits, sensors and 30-year-old electrical components. According to an NTSB release, track circuit modules -- each of which contain 20 circuit boards with capacitors, resistors and transistors -- showed "anomalies" which are under further investigation. In a Washington Times interview, Metro General Manager John B. Catoe said that findings could affect rail operations around the country, as many systems use the same type of equipment.

A report following the accident also says that use of cell phones, PDAs or other such devices by operators will be cause for immediate termination.