[1] The train had left Albany at 6:05 a.m. and was instructed to reach Syracuse within three hours, including stops in Schenectady, Fonda, Herkimer and Utica.

The train was run by engineer Robert Lilly, fireman Thomas Connolly, and conductor George Erhardt.

[2] The accident happened approximately .5 miles (800 m) east of the Little Falls train station where the tracks run parallel to the north shore of the Mohawk River, on the Gulf Curve, the sharpest curve in the New York Central system, a six to seven degree bend.

After negotiating approximately 75% of the curve, the engine derailed and crossed two of the parallel tracks and went down an embankment landing on its side.

All three set of tracks involved were forced out of service due to twisted rails and damaged ties.

The train passed a signal tower at St. Johnsville, 9.83 miles (15.82 km) east of the crash site, four minutes before derailing.