A woman was struck and killed by a New Jersey Transit train near Absecon on Christmas Eve, prompting an immediate halt to Atlantic City Line service.
The incident occurred just after midnight, shattering the holiday atmosphere for commuters and residents alike.
The NJ Transit train departed the Atlantic City Terminal at 6:54 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 24, bound for Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.
By 7 p.m., the train was approaching the Absecon area when the fatal event unfolded.
Officials reported that shortly after 7 p.m., an unidentified woman trespassed onto the tracks near Absecon, New Jersey.
The woman was struck and killed by the moving train, according to the transit authorities.
None of the 30 passengers or crew aboard the train sustained injuries in the incident.
The onboard crew reported that the train’s operation remained otherwise normal until the accident.
NJ Transit officials announced the suspension of Atlantic City Line service on Christmas Eve following the fatality.
The announcement came shortly after the incident was confirmed by police.
The suspension applies in both directions between Atlantic City and Egg Harbor City.
All trains on the line have been halted pending further investigation.
NJ Transit buses and PATCO are cross-honoring rail tickets and passes for customers affected by the suspension.
Riders can use their existing tickets on alternate transportation modes.
NJ Transit Police are currently investigating the incident.
The investigation focuses on the circumstances surrounding the trespasser and the train’s operation.
An official tweet from the Atlantic City Line account read: “Atlantic City Rail Line service is suspended in both directions between Atlantic City and Egg Harbor City due to a trespasser fatality near Absecon. NJ TRANSIT bus and PATCO are cross honoring rail tickets and passes.”
The tweet was posted on December 25, 2025.
Officials said, “Service on New Jersey Transit’s Atlantic City Rail Line was suspended on Christmas Eve after a woman was struck and killed by a train.”
This statement was released to confirm the line’s status.
The Atlantic City Line operates along a 21-mile stretch between Atlantic City and Philadelphia, passing through Egg Harbor City.
The line is a key commuter route for residents traveling between the two cities.
NJ Transit emphasized that safety protocols remain in place for all passengers and staff.
The agency reiterated its commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future.
Commuters relying on the Atlantic City Line face significant disruption as the line remains out of service.
Alternative transportation options are being coordinated to minimize inconvenience.
Bus replacements are being deployed along the affected corridor, with schedules posted on the NJ Transit website.
Passengers are encouraged to check the site for real-time updates.
NJ Transit officials are working closely with PATCO to provide seamless travel for riders.
The partnership aims to maintain service continuity during the suspension.
PATCO’s involvement includes offering cross-honored tickets for passengers who hold NJ Transit passes.
The arrangement allows riders to transfer between services without additional cost.
Bus routes are operating at increased frequency to accommodate the displaced rail passengers.
Drivers are being briefed on the new schedules and routes.
Riders are advised to monitor NJ Transit’s official communications for any changes.
The agency has set up a hotline for inquiries related to the suspension.
NJ Transit will issue further updates as the investigation progresses and as service can resume.
The agency has stated that the line will remain closed until a full safety review is completed.
The tragic incident underscores the importance of track safety and passenger awareness.
NJ Transit, PATCO, and local authorities are committed to restoring service safely and promptly.
Key Takeaways
- A woman was struck and killed by a NJ Transit train near Absecon on Christmas Eve.
- Atlantic City Line service between Atlantic City and Egg Harbor City is suspended in both directions.
- NJ Transit buses and PATCO are cross-honoring rail tickets and passes while the investigation continues.
