A CSX train derailed 31 cars in Kentucky, causing toxic substances to be released into the atmosphere. Molten, liquid sulfur has since been contained. Air quality testing has also been conducted since the derailment.
“Kentucky, there has been a train derailment in Todd County, and local emergency management has issued a shelter-in-place order for the City of Trenton,” Governor Andy Beshear (D) said in a statement. “Please follow local guidance and stay safe. More information will be shared as available for those in the surrounding area.”
The company released a statement on the matter: “At approximately 7:15 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Dec. 30, a CSX train derailed 31 rail cars located near Trenton Tress Shop Road and Dixie Bee Line Highway in Trenton, Kentucky. Todd County Emergency Management was immediately notified and quickly responded to the scene. As a precaution, Todd County issued a half-mile shelter-in-place order around the impacted site. No injuries were reported.”
“CSX crews are currently on scene and working as safely and quickly as possible to clean up the impacted site,” the statement continued. “Our primary focus is on the health and safety of onsite staff and personnel, the surrounding community, and mitigating potential risk to the environment. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation.“
Kentucky saw a train derailment earlier this year, as Norfolk Southern crews worked to clear train wreckage in January. “We have never experienced a situation like this, and we appreciate your concern and patience. We will do the best we can to relay the most up-to-date information as we receive it,” Sadieville Mayor Jennifer Halsey said at the time. “This is not how we wanted to start out the year 2025 in our little town, but this will not deter myself or your other city officials from continuing to serve you and to do our best to make the correct decisions that will only better our town.”
