Daley provides statement following train derailment in Whitemarsh Township
Rep. Mary Jo Daley July 17, 2023 | 1:45 PM
MONTGOMERY, July 17 – State Rep. Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, provided this statement following this morning’s train derailment in Whitemarsh Township.
“We are relieved that we are seeing reports that no one was hurt in this accident,” Daley said. “Emergency response teams from the township, state and county were on the scene early this morning to inspect the site and ensure that no hazardous materials had spilled. Now, work remains to plan the removal of these freight cars from the scene safely.”
According to media reports, Whitemarsh Emergency Services is investigating the derailment of about 16 of the train’s 40 cars of a CSX train on Norfolk Southern rails in the Plymouth Meeting section of Whitemarsh Township. The derailment is located in the area bounded by Flourtown Road, Joshua Road and Stenton Avenue.
Precautionary evacuations occurred for residents and businesses closest to the scene; however, residents were allowed to return by 10 a.m. It is not believed that further evacuations will be needed, but evaluations continue. There are no reported injuries and no known hazards to the public.
Gov. Josh Shapiro and his team are monitoring the situation and urging local residents to take precautions at the direction and instruction of local authorities.
One of the container cars is leaking white silicone balls/pellets that are non-hazardous.
Representatives of Norfolk Southern and CSX rail are on location, as are members of Montgomery County’s Department of Public Safety Emergency Response Team.
A press briefing was held at the Township Building at 11 a.m., according to Richard Mellor Jr. township manager of Whitemarsh Township.
Residents can obtain more information by contacting Daley’s office at 610-832-1679.