COPPER THIEF HALTS COMMUTER RAIL LINE

A copper thief stole signaling wire from a busy commuter rail line, disrupting service Friday between Union Station and Denver International Airport, RTD said.

The transit agency rushed to press buses into service to shuttle stranded commuters while repairs were made along the A Line, officials said.

Thieves sell stolen copper - and other metals - to recyclers for cash and barter, a chronic problem across the nation.