Via Rail passengers stranded on train to Toronto for 13 hours finally out

The Via passenger rail service faced significant overnight disruptions across eastern Ontario after one of its trains suffered a mechanical failure near Brockville.

Passengers aboard Train 669 were reportedly stuck for over 13 hours after a “mechanical failure” occurred on the tracks. The issue also prompted delays to trains 48 and 54, according to a statement from Via Rail.

Rail officials said the incident caused extensive service impacts, with passengers experiencing hours-long delays in challenging weather conditions.

According to the operator, multiple attempts to repair the disabled train on site were unsuccessful.

Crews then carried out a full passenger transfer between trains, a process that was completed safely and without any reported injuries.

“All affected customers will receive a full refund and a 100% travel credit,” the company said in a statement, adding that safety remained its top priority throughout the incident.

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Staff worked through the night to support passengers as temperatures dropped and conditions deteriorated.

Incidents of this kind are “very rare,” the rail service noted, but acknowledged that “even one such experience is too many.”

A comprehensive review of the mechanical failure is now underway to determine the cause and identify ways to strengthen both operations and emergency response procedures.

Passengers can continue to track service updates and real-time train movements through the operator’s online tracking tools.