Freight train derailment in Pennsylvania leads to hazmat response

A freight train derailed in southeastern Pennsylvania, sending at least 13 rail cars off the tracks and forcing nearby residents to temporarily shelter in place over possible hazardous materials, officials said. No injuries have been reported.

The derailment happened Tuesday afternoon near East Bristol Road and Grove Avenue in Bensalem Township, about 20 miles northeast of Philadelphia, according to officials and local media.

Pennsylvania state Sen. Doug Mastriano said at least 13 cars from a CSX freight train left the tracks near the Neshaminy Falls train station, drawing a large response from police, firefighters, EMS and hazmat crews.

Residents nearby were initially told to shelter in place because of possible hazardous materials, according to WCAU. The warning instructed people to go indoors, close windows, doors and vents, and turn off air conditioning systems until further notice.

Officials later said no hazardous materials had leaked, and the evacuation and shelter-in-place orders were lifted. Mastriano said there was no threat to the public.

CSX told WCAU that no injuries were reported. The cause of the derailment remains under investigation.