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Train With Hazardous Materials Derails in Baltimore
A freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed in a downtown tunnel of Baltimore, U.S. and caught fire Wednesday, pushing thick, black smoke into surrounding neighborhoods and forcing postponement of a Baltimore Orioles' game.
The 60-car CSX train was carrying hazardous materials; a television station said they included hydrochloric acid. It was not immediately known whether any area homes or businesses had been evacuated.
No injuries were reported. The cause of the derailment was not immediately known, but CSX spokesman Rob Gould said the train's three locomotives had pulled away from the cars at the first sign of trouble.
"There are hazardous materials cars in the train, but I don't know what's involved," Gould said.
Civil defense sirens blared downtown warning of an emergency. Parts of Interstates 95 and 395 were closed during evening rush hour, and commuter rail service in the area was halted.
Firefighters used thermal imaging equipment to try to pinpoint the train's location within the tunnel, which stretches from near Camden Yards, home of the Orioles, to the Maryland Institute College of Art.
Fans attending the Orioles' game against the Texas Rangers were forced to evacuate the stadium. The game, the second of a day-night doubleheader, was postponed.
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