>> So in this instance, had the Metrolink train simply passed the Red at CP Lilac but was able to stop before
>> striking the Kaiser Turn (remember, there's something on the order of 120 feet between the signal and the
>> fouling point) would we have ever heard about it?

True enough, but only because the media was paying no attention, or thought it wouldn't sell newspapers. Big messy scattering of train parts all over the place usually gets the attention of field reporters. But they usually won't even notice some esoteric mishap.

Having been involved in the investigation of a large number of near miss incidences, and even one "false clear" that caused a near miss sideswipe, I can tell you that such incidences are taken very seriously, and are investigated thoroughly. In the case of the false clear investigations, national testing laboratories are even hired to prove or disprove the various hypothesis developed during the initial investigation. This makes the response to the incident scientifically equivalent to an NTSB investigation - and just as unbiased.

Usually though, no evidence of equipment malfunction is present but evidence of human error is. Nevertheless, all possible leads are followed up on. This includes all speculations by the investigators; which, in the form of hypothesis, are tested and proved or dis-proved. Such internal investigations are usually led by independent divisions (not the responsible operating staff) with the help of engineering staff and outside consultants.

Cover-ups could happen, but they would require the duplicity of all who were involved. That would also have to include non-operating people that check signal system tapes for malfunctions and violations. Surely they are doing that at MetroLink, as any railroad subject to the F.R.A. is required to report all such occurrences to the F.R.A.

My Grandfather told of such an incident though, where a Northbound Sacramento Northern train ran a red at Clyde during the Vietnam War, nearly missing an ammunition train crossing in front of them. All five crewmen conspired to hide the incident - and made no report of it. A few days later, the Clyde Interlocker tapes were read, revealing the near miss. A massive joint Navy - Sacramento Northern investigation resulted, ending in the dismissal of all five. He said that because their records were mostly clean prior to this incident, they would have only received a suspension or just demerits for their part in running the red. But because of the attempted coverup, they were outright fired. They were stupid to try a cover-up!

OPB