03/09/2026
NEWS RELEASE
Milton Fire Department – Locomotive Fire Incident
Date/Time: Sunday, March 8, 2026, approximately 10:55 p.m.
Location: McMullen Road / Winter Lane railroad crossing, Town of Milton
Incident Summary:
At approximately 10:55 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026, the Milton Fire Department, with assistance from the Milton Rescue Department and Milton Police Department, responded to a reported locomotive fire at the McMullen Road and Winter Lane railroad crossing.
Upon arrival, responding units identified significant fire involvement within the second locomotive unit positioned directly behind the lead engine. Active fire was observed in the engine compartment, with flames venting vertically an estimated 15–20 feet above the locomotive. Initial size‑up and investigation determined the fire originated from a mechanical failure of the diesel engine, resulting in the release of an undetermined quantity of lubricating oil into the exhaust manifold and adjacent engine room components.
As a result of the mechanical failure, the diesel engine entered a runaway condition, operating at elevated RPMs and initially unable to be shut down through standard controls. The locomotive engineer and conductor implemented emergency shutdown procedures, including activation of systems to terminate fuel flow to the affected engine. After a brief interval, engine RPMs decreased and the unit shut down, allowing fire suppression operations to proceed safely.
Fire crews completed extinguishment, confirming the incident was confined to the engine room and roof‑mounted exhaust manifold. No extension beyond the second locomotive unit was identified.
The train, owned and operated by New England Railway, was traveling southbound and transporting tanker cars containing hazardous flammable materials. The tanker cars were positioned behind five boxcars, providing separation from the three locomotive units. At no point was the fire at risk of extending to the tanker cars.
According to statements from the engineer and conductor, a bright flash and loud noise were observed while traversing the railroad street crossing. Initially suspecting a vehicle strike, they subsequently identified active fire in the second locomotive. The engineer reduced speed and brought the train to a controlled stop at the next crossing to facilitate safe access for emergency responders. Emergency braking systems were secured and fuel systems isolated prior to fire department operations.
The Milton Fire Department acknowledges the prompt and appropriate actions taken by the train crew, which contributed significantly to scene safety and effective incident mitigation.
Additional Responding Agencies:
Georgia Fire Department
Fairfax Fire Department
Colchester Fire Department
Green Mountain Power
Note to community members: “although these incidents are rare, Milton emergency service departments conduct annual training to respond to railroad-related emergencies in our community. Last night’s events demonstrate that preparedness.”
Submitted by:
Chief Chris Poirier
Milton Fire Department
