Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Train Collision in Silver Spring Claims Eleven Lives

2/16/2026

36 3

Summary

Story summary

On February 16, 1996, a MARC commuter train collided with Amtrak's Capitol Limited in Silver Spring, Maryland, resulting in the deaths of three crew members and eight passengers on the MARC train. The accident injured 26 others and prompted the U.S. government to establish stricter federal regulations for passenger car design to enhance safety.

1 of 1

Story summary

On February 16, 1996, a MARC commuter train collided with Amtrak's Capitol Limited in Silver Spring, Maryland, resulting in the deaths of three crew members and eight passengers on the MARC train. The accident injured 26 others and prompted the U.S. government to establish stricter federal regulations for passenger car design to enhance safety.