Fire on NJ PATH train disrupts multiple commuter lines temporarily.

On the morning of August 4, 2025, a fire beneath an eastbound PATH train at Newport Station led to significant disruptions in service and resulted in numerous injuries. The incident, which began at approximately 6:19 a.m., produced a substantial amount of smoke, prompting immediate action from officials at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

In total, thirteen individuals were treated for smoke inhalation linked to the fire. Among them, nine were transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The swift response of the Port Authority and emergency services ensured the evacuation of passengers from the affected platform, mitigating what could have been a more severe outcome.

Following the blaze, service on several key PATH lines experienced substantial delays. Operations were suspended between Hoboken and the World Trade Center, as well as between Journal Square and 33rd Street. However, services between the World Trade Center and Newark, along with those between Hoboken and 33rd Street, remained operational during this time.

About two hours post-incident, an update at 8:37 a.m. indicated that service continued to be interrupted between Journal Square and 33rd Street, as well as between Hoboken and the World Trade Center. However, services began to resume between Hoboken and 33rd Street, while the line connecting Newark and the World Trade Center was reported operational.

New York City Emergency Management issued alerts notifying commuters of the transmission delays, contributing to impending chaos as passengers sought alternative travel options. To alleviate the situation, New Jersey Transit began cross-honoring PATH tickets at Hoboken, Newark, and New York’s Penn Station, enabling stranded commuters to continue their journeys. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail also accepted PATH tickets at key locations, including Newport and Exchange Place.

Buses and ferries were also mobilized as public transport providers adjusted their services in response to the unexpected disruption. New York Waterway announced that it would cross-honor PATH tickets at various terminals, including Hoboken, Battery Park City, and Midtown.

As the incident was handled, PATH employees remained on the scene alongside the Jersey City Fire Department to aid in the situation. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, as transit authorities work to ensure commuters’ safety and restore full service to the affected lines.