Metrorail service on the Yellow and Green Lines was interrupted for hours yesterday after a screw caught fire on the tracks at Gallery Place Chinatown station. The incident, which took place in the middle of rush hour, caused crowding, delays, and sent one person to the hospital.

According to a witness, a train operator hopped off the Yellow Line to extinguish the fire.

The incident took place just before 6 p.m., causing crowded conditions and the temporary closure of Gallery Place Chinatown station. Smoke engulfed the station as a result of the fire extinguisher, according to a Metro spokesperson.

After the “smoldering bolt” issue resolved, Metro suspended service on the Green and Yellow lines between Mount Vernon Square and L’Enfant Plaza to help with the flow of traffic, according to Metro. Service was completely restored around 10 p.m.

One person was taken to the hospital for possible smoke inhalation, according to D.C. Fire and EMS, who were on the scene.

Metrorail is currently undergoing the second safety surge of Safetrack—WMATA’s year-long maintenance plan. Since June 18, the Potomac Avenue and and Stadium Armory stations have been closed entirely, bifurcating the Orange, Blue, and Silver lines.

Filed Under: chinatown, fire, gallery place, metro, smoke, wmata,