Eastern Railroad Discussion > Roof collapse in Cumberland?

Have heard an unconfirmed report that the first story roof of the Western Maryland station in Cumberland had collapsed yesterday. There are no reports of any injuries but considerable damage. Anyone have more details of this incident?
Ace

The answer to my own question was found at Eastern Rail News today. They report that the first floor ceiling collapsed sending tons of plaster and a large chandelier cascading to the floor below. Considerable damage was incurred to the first floor structures and ticket sales for this Sundays first rail trip of the season will have to be conducted from an outdoor location.
Ace S.

"Ceiling drops at railway station." (Didn't Simon and Garfunkel write that?)
http://www.times-news.com/

>>
MICHAEL A. SAWYERS
Times-News Staff Writer

CUMBERLAND -- Timing was all that separated property damage from tragedy Monday afternoon when what appeared to be tons of plaster fell from the ceiling of the main foyer at the Western Maryland Station Center, damaging everything beneath it.

A copper-rimmed chandelier with a large, white dome also fell and was destroyed. The incident took place about 5 p.m. and triggered an automatic fire alarm, bringing a response from Cumberland firefighters.

"We are very, very lucky," said Jerry Hess, executive director of Destination Allegany, the county's tourism attraction agency.

Hess was one of several individuals attending a meeting of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad board of directors on the third floor of the building.

"We heard a noise and then when we heard an alarm we left the building," Hess said. "It was difficult to see as we left and the plaster dust got in your nose and throat."
[snip]
<<