Rail Trespassing and Suicide Fatalities Up 70%

November 24, 2025 — Washington, D.C. 

According to Federal Transit Administration (FTA) data, trespasser and suicide-related incidents now account for 50 percent of all transit-related fatalities reported in 2024. Between 2016 and 2024, these events have risen sharply, with major incidents up 71 percent, fatalities up 70 percent, and injuries up 65 percent. 

Today, the FTA issued safety advisory 25-1: reducing rail trespassing and suicide events. They are calling on state safety oversight agencies and rail transit agencies to take stronger action to identify and mitigate hazards related to these events on their properties. 

FTA Recommendations 

The advisory directs these organizations to: 

• Use their Safety Management Systems (SMS) to proactively identify hazards and assess risks related to trespassing and suicide events. 

• Actively develop and implement mitigation strategies to reduce the likelihood and severity of these incidents. 

• Monitor and measure the effectiveness of those mitigations through ongoing safety performance procedures. 

Support for Rail Crews 

For the men and women who operate passenger and commuter trains daily, these incidents represent a tragic reality. By the time a person enters the gauge of the tracks, it is often already too late to react. The emotional and operational toll of these events is profound, underscoring the need for prevention and mental health support for all involved. 

FTA has hosted webinars and developed mental health resources for transit workers, emphasizing both public safety and the well-being of employees exposed to traumatic events. They also have published a Mental Health Resources for Transit Workers web page ► which highlights many resources for railroaders who have been involved in these tragic incidents. 

Using the page, railroaders can connect with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the National Institute of Mental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other organizations that provide counseling and care. 

Moving Forward 

SMART-TD encourages all passenger and commuter rail members to review this advisory and remain vigilant for potential hazards. The union will continue to work with federal partners and transit agencies to promote effective safety practices and ensure the protection of both rail workers and the traveling public. 

For additional details, please read the full text of Safety Advisory 25-1 ►