Shelter-in-place order lifted after freight train derailment sparks hazmat concerns in Pennsylvania
Officials said no hazardous material leaks were found after a freight train derailment Tuesday afternoon in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, and that earlier shelter-in-place and evacuation orders have been lifted.
"Hazmat personnel have deemed the area safe," the Bensalem Police Department said in a statement. "There is no threat to the public. All residents may return to their homes and businesses."
About 16 freight cars derailed around 2:15 p.m. between Street Road and the Neshaminy Falls train station, according to local outlets NBC10 and 6abc.
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Authorities initially worked to determine what the cars were carrying amid concerns that some may have contained hazardous materials.
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., said no injuries had been reported and that his office was coordinating with local officials, first responders and the Department of Transportation.
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"This was a freight derailment and did not occur on commuter rail lines," Fitzpatrick wrote on X. "Local officials have reported several cars involved, which may contain hazardous materials."
A one-mile shelter-in-place order was initially issued, with residents urged to stay indoors, bring pets inside, close windows, doors and vents, and turn off heating and air conditioning systems.
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People outside the area were asked to avoid the scene and keep nearby roads clear for emergency crews.
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The incident comes more than three years after the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment raised national concerns over rail safety and the transport of hazardous materials.
Bucks County Emergency Management and the Bensalem Township Police Department could not immediately be reached by Fox News Digital for comment.