In a shocking incident, two subway trains collided and derailed on the afternoon of Thursday near 96th Street and Broadway on Manhattan's Upper West Side. The incident, which occurred around 3 p.m., caused non-life threatening injuries to 24 passengers, according to the FDNY.

The trains involved in the collision were both 1 trains, as confirmed by MTA President Richard Davey. One of the trains was carrying passengers, while the other was out of service due to vandalism. Davey revealed that the out-of-service train had been vandalized, with multiple emergency cords having been pulled earlier. Although the train operators were able to reset all but one cord, the train remained stuck in the station.

Eyewitnesses described the terrifying experience, with passengers reporting intense shaking and a loud explosion. One terrified passenger recounted the panic on board, stating that everyone was screaming and trying to call 911. Another passenger mentioned how the train suddenly stopped, filled with smoke, adding to the chaos and fear.

Emergency responders swiftly requested the MTA to switch off the power, allowing for the safe evacuation of the train carrying passengers. Davey disclosed that the out-of-service train was being operated from the conductor position in the middle, despite having a train operator and two other employees on board.

Davey assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the collision and to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. However, he cautioned that it might take some time before service on the affected line could be fully restored, with the MTA anticipating the need for extensive repairs and cleanup.

As a result of the incident, there is currently no service available on the 1/2/3 line, greatly impacting the evening commute. The MTA has advised commuters to utilize alternate routes by taking A/B/C/D trains instead. Additionally, street closures have been implemented in the area, affecting Columbus Avenue to West End Avenue along 96th Street.

The MTA and emergency crews are diligently working throughout the night to resolve the aftermath of the collision and ensure the safety of commuters. Authorities are urging commuters to stay updated on the situation and adjust their travel plans accordingly.