Authorities continue to investigate how 16 train cars at the rear end of a 72-car freight train hauling acid, alcohol and other materials overturned June 30 between Street Road and Grove Avenue in Trevose.
No injuries were reported in the 1:59 p.m. incident involving the train traveling eastbound on the West Trenton line toward the Neshaminy Falls Train Station. As a result, service on SEPTA’s West Trenton line was suspended, and Bristol Road closed. Three train cars displayed hazardous materials placards, forcing temporary evacuation and shelter-in-place orders.
Upon inspection following the mishap, officials said no harmful materials had leaked, and by 4:30 p.m., orders were lifted. The following day, crews successfully removed the train cars that derailed into a roadbed, and repaired and restored tacks allowing train service to resume, said Jonathan Stuckey, CSX spokesman.
The accident is being monitored by the Federal Railroad Administration, and CSX within the next three months must submit to the agency a detailed report on the accident cause.
CSX crews were on the scene.
“CSX crews are currently on scene and working as safely and quickly as possible to restore the impacted site,” according to the freight train operator. “The cause of this incident is currently under investigation. We will provide more information as it becomes available.”
According to William McVey, director of public safety, Bensalem Township, there were hazardous materials on the train, but it was determined that “nothing leaked.”
“There was an alcohol substance in one, and I believe acid in another,” he said.
The CSX hazmat team will be responsible for cleanup of the location and for determining the cause.