Metrobus Burns Inside Tunnel, Sending Smoke over Nation's Capital

“The tunnel is designed with air shafts and vents to give people time to get out,” DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said.
April 24, 2026

Dark smoke was visible in the nation's capital sky Thursday evening as a Metrobus caught fire in a tunnel under the National Mall.

“The tunnel is designed with air shafts and vents to give people time to get out,” DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly told WRC.

The driver of the empty bus escaped without injuries. 

About the Author

Susan Nicol

News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues. 

Sign up for our eNewsletters
Get the latest news and updates

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!