Metra SWS Line May Not Be Restored Until Thursday After Freight Derailment: UPDATE 1X

OAK LAWN, IL — UPDATE, 12:46 p.m. — Service has not yet been restored on Metra's Southwest service line after a CSX freight train derailed early Wednesday morning and is not likely to be restored until Thursday, Chicago Ridge police said.

The freight train turned over around 4:45 a.m., Metra said. Streets around 107th Street and Central Avenue on the Oak Lawn and Chicago Ridge border remain closed.

Chicago Ridge police issued the following update:

Ridgeland Avenue and Central Avenue remain closed at the railroad crossings. Crews are actively working to clear the area and repair the tracks to restore Metra service. However, Metra shutdowns are expected to continue until at least tomorrow.

All train cars have been inspected. There are no reported injuries, and no hazardous materials are involved.

There is a ton of equipment in the area and damage to the track. The cause of the derailment is under investigation.

Oak Lawn police have closed Central Avenue between 107th and Pleasant Boulevard.

Ridgeland Avenue is shut down between Southwest Highway and Washington Street in Chicago Ridge.

Richards High School was scheduled for its usual late start on Wednesday with first period starting at 9:30 a.m.

“The principal notified families this morning about the train derailment, advising them to allow for more time to arrive for school,” a school spokesperson said.

Metra canceled the following outbound trains Wednesday morning: #801, scheduled to depart Chicago at 6:32 a.m.; #803, scheduled to depart Chicago at 7:27 a.m.; and #805, scheduled to depart Chicago at 8:27 a.m.

Commuters searching for information about service Wednesday afternoon can check Metra Service alerts orMetra on X.

~This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.