Train carrying clay derails near the intersection of Park Avenue and Union Street

Alexandra Koch, Aiken Standard, S.C.
·1 min read

Jan. 26—Tuesday afternoon a train carrying clay from a kaolin clay mine derailed near the 100 block of Union Street S.E.

The derailment occurred around 5 p.m. near the intersection of Park Avenue and Union Street.

There were no injuries and no hazardous spills, according to the Aiken Department of Public Safety.

Aiken City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh confirmed the train was not carrying any hazardous materials.

"We don't believe [the train] is in danger of toppling or falling over," Bedenbaugh said. "We've been told by the railroad company that appropriate equipment will be coming in first thing in the morning to get the train back on the track."

In the interim, the northbound lane on the 100 block of Union Street S.E. will be closed until the train is moved.

The Aiken Department of Public Safety is on the scene monitoring traffic.

Bedenbaugh encourages citizens to stay away from the derailment for safety reasons.

"Do not enter underneath the caution tape near the train," he said. "Stay far away from it. Again, it is private property."

Breaking news. This story will be updated as new information becomes available.