Train Derails In Pennsylvania

A Norfolk Southern train derailed in Pennsylvania last week, just over a year after the derailment of a train carrying dangerous chemicals in East Palestine, Ohio. The latest crash presents a challenge for Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg a year after he was criticized by conservatives who argued that he did not take the East Palestine crash seriously.

A Norfolk Southern train derailed near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The crash caused a spill of diesel fuel and plastic pellets. Much of the leaked material entered into the nearby Lehigh River. According to local police, there were no injuries or evacuations caused by the derailment.

Officials say that there is no risk to the wider public due to the leaked materials.

“We appreciate the quick, professional response by local emergency agencies,” wrote Norfolk Southern on social media. “Our crews and contractors are on-scene and assessing with first responders.”

Our crews and contractors will remain on-scene over the coming days to cleanup, and we appreciate the public’s patience while they work as quickly, thoroughly and as safely as possible. We are always working to advance safety,” the statement said.

This is the second major Norfolk Southern derailment in a little more than a year. The 2023 crash of a Norfolk Southern train in East Palestine, Ohio caused a burnoff of dangerous chemicals that led to large black plumes of smoke and later reports of thousands of animal deaths.

In addition, since 2021, Norfolk Southern has had six significant accidents.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating a derailment involving a Norfolk Southern freight train in eastern Pennsylvania. Whit Johnson has the details. https://t.co/CSRtAocPUy pic.twitter.com/8FVwcsjncb

— World News Tonight (@ABCWorldNews) March 3, 2024

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced a separate investigation into Norfolk Southern’s safety procedures following the East Palestine crash. A final report on the cause of the East Palestine crash is expected to be revealed in June.

A bipartisan group of senators has announced the Railroad Safety Act, which intends to prevent future similar accidents. The bill is sponsored by both of Ohio’s senators, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH).

If passed, the fines for railway safety violations would increase significantly.