A train came to an abrupt stop to avoid striking a semi-truck and trailer but a resulting derailment Thursday afternoon blocked the heart of Glendale.
The engineer managed to avoid the collision but 21 rail cars left the tracks, according to an official statement from CSX.
Sheriff John Ward said it appeared a semi got hung up on the tracks at the crossing at Gilead Church Road. While trying to stop, the CSX train was derailed.
“The train did stop; it didn’t hit the semi, but it caused a derailment here at the crossing in downtown Glendale,” Ward said.
Both the Main Street and New Glendale Road crossings in downtown Glendale were blocked and some bystanders reportedly were hurt when a derailed car collided with their vehicle. CSX said the injuries are not life threatening.
The company said no members of the train crew reported injuries and no hazardous materials are involved.
Ward said vehicles and property were damaged downtown as a result of the derailment.
The derailment, which CSX said occurred at approximately 2:54 p.m., had an impact on bus routes for students, too.
“Because of a train derailment in Glendale, students who ride buses that normally cross the railroad tracks at the Whistle Stop Restaurant crossing may be delayed this afternoon,” Hardin County Schools Community Relations Specialist John Wright said in a message Thursday afternoon. “We will work to get all students home as close to normal time as possible.”
Kentucky State Police is working on a report of the incident, Ward said.
The CSX statement commended local officials on their response.
“We appreciate the swift response of Hardin County first responders. CSX crews are on site working closely with local emergency responders to assess the situation and develop recovery efforts,” the information said. “The safety of our employees and the community are our top priority as we work to restore the area.”
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