Train derailment leaves cars on riverbank or in water; no injuries, hazardous materials reported
BETHLEHEM, Pa. (AP) — Authorities say a train derailment in eastern Pennsylvania has left some railroad cars along a riverbank Saturday morning and at least one partially in the river itself.
Dispatchers in Northampton County said the derailment was reported at 7:14 a.m. in Lower Saucon Township. Authorities said it was unclear how many cars were involved but no injuries or hazardous materials were reported.
In a message posted on social media, Northampton County’s executive, Lamont McClure, also said preliminary information indicated there were “no evacuations, no injuries, and no leaks” but that could change and “the best thing we can do to assist first responders is to STAY AWAY.”
The Nancy Run Fire Company posted pictures showing a number of railroad cars scattered along the riverbank and at least one partially in the water.
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Gary Weiland, who lives across the river in Bethlehem Township, told The (Allentown) Morning Call he initially heard what sounded like a crash, then a period of quiet followed by the sound of another crash.
“As the second one was happening, I went upstairs and looked out the window and saw a splash. I said to my wife, ‘I think a train derailed.’” Weiland said.
There was no immediate word on the derailment’s cause.
Norfolk Southern said in a statement that its crews and contractors were at the scene “and assessing with first responders.” The company also praised “the quick, professional response by local emergency agencies.”
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According to a media release from Lower Saucon Township Police, they have stated that there was a diesel fuel spill into the Lehigh River from the accident and containment booms have been deployed. Additionally, the release stated that there was also a spill of polypropylene plastic pellets from one of the derailed cars.
Police said that there currently are no evacuations or hazardous material threats to the community. They request that everyone stay out of the area so first responders and Norfolk Southern personnel can continue to assess and work at the scene.
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