NILES, Mich. (AP) -- The National Transportation Safety Board says a derailing device did just what it was supposed to when an Amtrak train went off the tracks on Oct. 21.
Amtrack train number 350 was given a green signal allowing it to proceed at maximum speed. However a switch was reversed, causing the rail to lead the train into the rail yard instead of continuing on the main track.
As a protective measure, a derailing device installed between the rail yard and main track was triggered, causing the passenger train to derail 290 feet beyond the switch. The train stopped with all cars upright.
About 174 passengers and four crew members were aboard the train.