Vandals start, crash, derail Hurstbridge train

UPDATE: Metro Trains will beef up security amid fears vandals that derailed a train at Hurstbridge may have a set of train keys. 

CEO Andrew Lezala told Neil Mitchell it appears the offenders used keys to start the train, and the same keys would fit most trains. 

‘Sometimes we do have keys lost,’ he said. ‘So until we apprehend these people and get the keys back – assuming they have got them – we are significantly increasing our yard security at every stabling point.’ 

Police are appealing for witnesses after the incident, which happened shortly before 2am this morning.

Vandals managed to get inside the rear carriage of the train, start it, and reverse it about 80 metres.

Three carriages came completely off the rails, hitting poles, fencing and another train.

Mr Lezala estimated the damage bill would come in at roughly $4 million.

Listen: Metro Trains CEO Andrew Lezala speaks to Neil Mitchell

3AW News was told a cleaner was in another carriage at the time, and was shocked to notice the train moving.

Police told Ross and John it could take two weeks to get the train back on track.

‘It’s quite an extensive bit of work ahead, I’m told,’ Sergeant Mark Chetcuti said.

It is unclear how many offenders were involved.

Buses will replace trains from Hurstbridge to Diamond Creek for up to three days.

Earlier: Ross and John cross to police reporter Pat Mitchell at the scene

Vandals derail a train in Hurstbridge. @3AW693 pic.twitter.com/4bXou6dKsh

? Pat Mitchell (@patty_mitchell) November 10, 2015