A fire continues to burn where a Norfolk Southern train derailed Friday night in East Palestine, Ohio. Some residents have been forced to evacuate, including parts of Beaver County.
The Columbiana County Sheriff's Department warns people within a mile of the crash who don't evacuate could face charges.
KDKA-TV photojournalist Ian Smith has been on scene and spoke with the Big K Morning Show Monday.
“They’re so worried about this explosion that in the debris and the shrapnel that it could cause, that they are actually forcing people out, they want them out of this one-mile square zone which does extend into Darlington in Beaver County here, so it’s pretty serious,” said Smith.
Norfolk Southern has released more details for residents impacted by the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. Several chemicals were on board at the time - including vinyl Chloride and combustible liquids.
As an evacuation order remains in place, the company says the air and water are safe. Testing has not shown any detection of vinyl chloride or other harmful substances. They say there are no long-term health risks at this time.
Michael Graham with the NTSB briefed reporters yesterday, saying the data recorder, video and audio recordings were recovered.
“We have obtained two videos which show preliminary indications of mechanical issues on one of the rail car axels,” said Graham.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is deploying the National Guard.
His office said on Sunday that the rail car is at risk of a “catastrophic tanker failure.”
Norfolk Southern released the following statement on their media website.
Norfolk Southern team members are on scene, and will be assisted by multiple derailment and environmental contractors. In addition to working closely with first responders, we are coordinating with federal, state and local agencies. The NTSB will be the lead agency for providing updates on the incident. We have established a Family Assistance Center to address the needs of the community and support those directly impacted. Additionally, we are supporting the efforts of the American Red Cross and their temporary community shelters through a $25,000 donation.