Fatal monorail accident at Disney World

The monorail trains were carrying tourists at the theme-park complex in central Florida, the spokesperson said.

The Fatal Crash

According to a CNN report citing theme park spokesman and a witness, a monorail train at Walt Disney World crashed into the back of another train early Sunday morning, killing one of the train operators at the scene.

The futuristic elevated trains crashed at one of the monorail stops at Disney World in Florida around 2 a.m. Eastern time, told the witness to CN on condition of anonymity.

A theme-park spokeswoman Zoraya Suarez told Reuters that the trains collided early Sunday near the entrance to the sprawling resort's Magic Kingdom Park. The crash occurred as people were leaving the park following a Fourth of July fireworks show.

Bo Jones, deputy chief for Reedy Creek Fire Department, told Associated Press that one train operator died at the scene of the crash, while the other was not injured, but was rushed to a medical facility as he was emotionally shaken. Five park guests were also given first-aid.

Investigation is on

Jones says it is unclear what caused the collision. Orange County Sheriff's officials are investigating the cause of the crash.

Walt Disney World vice president of public affairs Mike Griffin issued a statement saying Disney World has closed the monorail system used to carry tourists to parks and hotels.

He also offered condolences to the train operator's family saying: "Today we mourn the loss of our fellow cast member. Our hearts go out to his family and to those who have lost a friend and co-worker."

The statement further Griffin stated that "we will continue to work closely will law enforcement to determine what happened and the appropriate next steps."