NTSB searches for clues to the cause of Lynchburg train derailment

NTSB searches for clues to the cause of Lynchburg train derailment (Image 1) (Copyright by WSLS - All rights reserved)

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues to investigate the cause of a train derailment in Lynchburg, Virginia. The accident happened on Wednesday afternoon. On Thursday, NTSB crews began gathering facts and looking for evidence of what caused the train to go off the track.

Preliminary reports show speed was not a factor in the derailment. NTSB official estimate that the train was traveling at 24 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone. The impact of the accident was felt by people working nearby.

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NTSB crews said 13 cars went off the track and three cars went into the water. CSX crews are handling clean-up efforts and working to repair the train tracks. According to a press release, CSX also contacted state and local officials in Lynchburg and downstream to provide information and answer questions about steps the company is taking to assess and mitigate any environmental effects. CSX continued implementing a comprehensive environmental assessment and protection effort that includes land-, air- and water-based testing and remediation, as well as measures to limit dispersal and impacts of materials in the James River. This work is being done in coordination with federal, state and local environmental authorities and independent experts.

NTSB has specialized teams examining the tracks, mechanics of the train and other factors that may provide clues to what caused the derailment.

On Friday, May 2, the CSX Community Outreach Center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Wingate Hotel, 3777 Candlers Mountain Road. In addition, citizens and businesses can contact 1-877-TELL CSX (1-877-835-5279) for assistance. The Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health is also available to provide information or to answer questions. That phone number is 434-442-4642.

The National Transportation Safety Board said the investigation into the cause could take up to 18 months.