West Columbia, SC (WLTX) – South Carolina Governor says its appears a freight train was on the wrong track moments before an Amtrak train collided with it, a collision that left two people dead and injured 116 others.
West Columbia, SC (WLTX) – South Carolina Governor says its appears a freight train was on the wrong track moments before an Amtrak train collided with it, a collision that left two people dead and injured 116 others.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster says the two deaths are employees of CSX, the train company that was operating the freight train.
The collision happened at 2:35 a.m., near Charleston Highway and Pine Ridge Road,
„Amtrak Train 91, operating between New York and Miami, came in contact with a CSX freight train at around 2:35 am in Cayce, South Carolina,“ a statement from Amtrak said. „The lead engine derailed, as well as some passenger cars.“
Individuals with questions regarding passengers on train 91 can contact us at 1.800.523.9101
McMaster said the CSX train was stationary on the north track. The Amtrak train was on the wrong track, according to McMaster.
McMaster says 116 of the injured have been transported to local hospitals, and officials confirm everyone has been removed from the trains.
Palmetto Health hospitals confirmed they have received a total of 62 patients: 59 adults and 2 children. Two of those patients are expected to be admitted to the hospital. Lexington Medical Center said they had received 27 patients, all with minor injuries, and they are all being discharged.
Adam Myrick with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department says injuries to other passengers range from small scratches to severe broken bones.
There were fuel leaks from the train, and approximately 5,000 gallons spilled, but Lexington County Spokesperson Harrison Cahill says those have been secured, and there is no threat to the public.
Emergency officials say a shelter has been set up at Pine Ridge Middle school for passengers.
The Red Cross is on the scene.
YouTube Video from the Scene:
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