On Long Island, specifically in Elmont, a disturbing incident occurred that had significant impacts on rail service. A 40-year-old Brooklyn man named Basilio Hidalgo was arrested after driving his black Honda SUV onto the railroad tracks between Bellerose and Floral Park stations just before 5 p.m. on Sunday. It was a dangerous situation that disrupted rail service on one branch of the Long Island Railroad for hours.

"DWI Incident Disrupts Long Island Railroad Service"

Intoxication and Track Entry

Police reported that Hidalgo was intoxicated when he drove onto the tracks west of the Elmont-UBS Arena Station. He allegedly traveled a half mile east before two tires on the SUV ignited, forcing the vehicle to stop. This incident not only endangered his own life but also put the lives of countless train passengers and railway workers at risk.The MTA emphasized that the driver accessed the tracks directly from grade level, meaning it was relatively easy for him to get onto the tracks. This raises questions about the security measures in place and the need for improved safeguards.

Impact on Rail Service

The incident had a cascading effect on multiple branches of the Long Island Railroad. Service on the Hempstead Branch was suspended, and there were significant delays on the Ronkonkoma, Port Jefferson, and Oyster Bay branches. It took crews more than three hours to remove the SUV, repair the damage to the tracks and third rail, and fully restore service to the Main Line. This disruption caused inconvenience and frustration for commuters who rely on the railroad for their daily travels.Track workers had to use a hydraulic lift to pull the vehicle off the track, a process that took hours with repairs. The extent of the damage and the time it took to restore service highlight the seriousness of the incident and the challenges faced in such situations.

Reactions from Riders

People who ride the LIRR were shocked by what had happened. One rider expressed embarrassment due to being late and the potential for delays. Another rider described the incident as "very weird" and "unsettling," especially for those on the train. These reactions show the impact that such incidents can have on the daily lives of commuters and the need for increased safety measures.The investigation into how the driver got onto the tracks is ongoing, and riders are calling for the MTA to find a way to make it harder for such incidents to occur. They believe that stronger security measures and better access control are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future.In conclusion, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety on the railroad and the need for continuous efforts to prevent such dangerous situations from happening. The MTA and relevant authorities must work together to address the issues and ensure the safety of commuters.