Driver faces charges after tram derails, crashes into bus shelter in Ascot Vale

A tram derailed and crashed through a bus shelter and hit a fire hydrant in Ascot Vale early on Tuesday morning.

A 49-year-old driver is facing charges of careless driving after the number 57 Essendon tram slammed into a traffic light pole, damaging overhead lines and creating peak-hour traffic chaos for the morning in the city's north-west.

The empty tram slid off its tracks while turning on Maribyrnong Road onto Ascot Vale Road about 12.20am.

It took out a traffic pole and mounted a curb before settling on a footpath.

There were no passengers on the tram that derailed in Ascot Vale
Photo: Jason South

Fawkner Highway Patrol members are investigating and a driver from Sunshine is expected to be charged over the crash.

The intersection is expected to be closed until midday and drivers are advised to avoid the area due to road closures.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Yarra Trams will conduct their own investigation, and the driver has been stood down.

The tram operator is now faced with the arduous task of trying to move the enormous tram, which according to their website can weigh as much as 30 rhinos, to the nearest tram depot in Essendon.

A derailed tram is returned to the tracks at the corner of Maribyrnong and Ascot Vale roads.
Photo: Jason South

A massive tow truck was sent in to help re-rail the tram, which workers were able to do about 6.30am.

The area is still blocked off - a full recovery crew of engineers and mechanics is repairing the tram before it can be towed to Essendon depot.

Authorities expect delays throughout the morning.