Safety fears ongoing after Ohio train derailment

Safety fears remain ongoing after the Ohio train derailment on February 3rd, which released a glut of toxic chemicals into the town of East Palestine. Experts have warned that more work may be needed to determine the consequences of the chemical spill, and residents have reported rashes and other health issues. 

The NTSB has reported that 38 rail cars derailed and a fire ensued, damaging an additional 12 cars. People in the area are advised to take precautions such as avoiding contact with debris or water near the site.

investigation of Ohio train derailment

The NTSB is conducting an investigation into the Ohio train derailment on February 3rd. Multiple videos of the train prior to it derailing have been reviewed, and the incident has prompted calls to investigate federal oversight of hazardous materials transport. The derailment set off evacuation orders, a chemical scare, and questions about the safety of transporting hazardous materials.

Ohio train derailment cause

Early indicators point to an overheated wheel bearing on the car that initiated the crash as the primary cause of the Ohio train derailment. Excess size of the train is also believed to have caused it to break down in days before it derailed. As a result of the derailment, 38 rail cars derailed and a fire ensued which damaged an additional 12 cars. Vinyl Chloride was released during the accident, prompting an evacuation of local residents.

ohio train derailment victims

The victims of the Ohio train derailment include residents of East Palestine who were affected by evacuation orders, chemical scares, and long-term health effects. The company behind the disaster, Norfolk Southern, faced repeated criticisms ahead of the crash. Worried residents near the derailment reported dead fish and other animals such as hens and roosters. At a packed town hall, victims of the crash tore into the EPA over the toxic spill.