1977 Chicago Loop derailment facts for kids

The 1977 Chicago Loop derailment was a serious train accident that happened in Chicago, Illinois, on Friday, February 4, 1977. During the busy evening rush hour, an elevated train operated by the Chicago Transit Authority crashed into the back of another train. This happened in the northeast part of the Chicago Loop, near Wabash Avenue and Lake Street.

The crash was very powerful. It pushed the first four cars of the train that hit the other one right off the elevated tracks. These train cars then fell down onto the street below. Sadly, 11 people lost their lives, and over 180 others were hurt in this accident.

What Happened on That Day?

On February 4, 1977, during the evening rush hour, many people were traveling on Chicago's elevated trains. One train was moving along the tracks when it crashed into the back of another train. This collision happened high above the street.

The force of the crash was so strong that it caused the front part of the second train to leave the tracks. Four of its cars broke away and fell from the elevated structure. They landed on the street below, causing a lot of damage.

What is the Chicago Loop?

The "Loop" is a special name for the downtown area of Chicago. It's famous for its rectangular shape of elevated train tracks. These tracks form a "loop" around the city's central business district.

The trains that run on these tracks are called "elevated trains" because they travel on structures built high above the streets. They are a very important part of Chicago's public transportation system.

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  The "Loop" refers to the rectangular routes of Chicago's elevated trains.