'Targeted Ticket Checks' at D.C.’s Union Station After Juvenile Fighting, Officials Say

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Travelers passing through Union Station on Wednesday may have noticed something unusual: Amtrak police officers conducting targeted ticket checks at certain entrances. The move followed reports of juveniles fighting inside the busy transit hub the day before.

The Incident

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), officers were called to Union Station around 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 2 after receiving reports of a group of juveniles engaged in a fight.

Police did not confirm whether arrests were made in connection with the incident but described it as “disruptive behavior involving groups of teenagers.”

No injuries were reported.

Amtrak’s Response

In a statement to 7News, Amtrak said the decision to increase security on Wednesday was directly tied to the previous day’s disturbances.

“Some entering the station through certain entrances on Wednesday afternoon would’ve spotted our officers checking tickets for roughly an hour,” Amtrak explained.

The agency stressed that these checks were temporary and targeted, aimed at restoring order and deterring further disruptions rather than part of a long-term policy change.

Coordinated Security Effort

Amtrak police were not alone in responding. MPD said its officers worked in coordination with Amtrak to ensure safety during the heightened security period.

Officials emphasized that no arrests or incidents were reported during the time the ticket checks were in place. The added presence of law enforcement, they said, was largely preventative.

Union Station as a Security Priority

Union Station, one of the busiest transit hubs in the nation’s capital, serves Amtrak, MARC, VRE, and Metro passengers daily. Its central role in D.C. travel makes it a frequent focus for law enforcement during periods of elevated concern.

Authorities said while the station is generally safe, occasional disturbances—particularly those involving groups of juveniles—require swift action to maintain public confidence.

Looking Ahead

Neither Amtrak nor MPD indicated whether similar ticket checks would be repeated in the coming days. For now, both agencies say they are monitoring the situation and will adjust security protocols as needed.

Travelers are encouraged to report suspicious activity to station personnel or police, though officials stressed there is no ongoing threat to public safety at Union Station.