Train passengers call for help over hostage fears

Over 500 passengers were trapped on an Amtrak train for 37 hours after a fault in the network

Hundreds of Amtrak passengers began calling 911 after their train was stuck in South Carolina for over a day.

The train was delayed for over 29 hours after another service was derailed. This forced disruptions to other Amtrak trains across the network.

Panicked passengers began calling emergency services over fears they were being held hostage.

However, the train’s conductor relieved any stress a short time after.

“For those of you that are calling the police, we are not holding you hostage,” train staff said.

The train was expected to arrive in Florida by 10am local time on Tuesday but after waiting in the woods of South Carolina, a new crew had to arrive to operate the train.

U.S. train operators must need service standards when it comes to the number of hours staff can operate for.

“We are giving you all the information which we have. We are sorry about the inconvenience,” train staff said.

Passengers were told not to open their windows to smoke. But Amtrak confirmed there were food and beverages on offer to the stranded passengers.

The train carried 563 passengers and 333 vehicles. It reached its final destination on Wednesday.