Santa Clara, CA: A massive train derailment involving 32 rail cars carrying hazardous material has forced the evacuation of all residents within a one-mile radius. The train accident took place about 85 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to early accident reports, the derailment happened around 5:00 in Bedford County, near Hyndman. Rail cars skidded into homes and garages caught fire and burned.
Officials said at least one car contained liquefied petroleum gas, and others contained flammable liquid asphalt. One, which was confirmed to have leaked and caught fire, contained molten sulphur.
The trains are owned by CSX Corp. The company has reportedly sent its hazardous materials specialists to the scene. A local community outreach center has also been opened near the derailment site. The Hyndman Fire Department opened a similar center nearby. All roads leading into Hyndman were closed, and some flight restrictions have been put in place, UPI News reports.
CSX said the 178-car train was traveling from Chicago to Selkirk, N.Y., near Albany, when the derailment happened.
