AP News cites NTSB preliminary reports indicating that a Norfolk Southern engineer slowed and stopped the train after a critical audible alarm message, which was shortly followed by the crew’s observation of fire and smoke. The crew then alerted railroad dispatch of a possible derailment.
AP News is also reporting that Ohio Republican Lt. Gov. Jon Husted is considering a criminal referral by the state of Ohio and says that Norfolk Southern should temporarily relocate people who continue to feel unsafe, or even consider buying their property.
The AP News story may be read HERE.
NBC News is reporting that the NTSB’s preliminary findings indicate an overheated wheel bearing and about recent high-level political or governmental visits to the East Palestine, Ohio area.
The NBC News story may be read HERE.
Additionally, NBC News reported yesterday that East Palestine, Ohio residents still do not trust assertions that it is safe to return to their homes and businesses. For example, local resident Doug Brayshaw told NBC that he cooks with and drinks only bottled water.
This NBC News story may be read HERE.
EPA Orders Cleanup
On Tuesday, February 21, 2023, the US Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) ordered Norfolk Southern to clean up all of the contaminated soil and water resulting from its train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. To address the concerns of residents regarding potential indoor contamination, the EPA says that it will offer cleaning services to area businesses and families.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan says that if Norfolk Southern fails to complete any actions ordered by the EPA, the EPA would immediately step in, conduct the necessary work, and then seek to compel the railroad to pay triple the cost (treble damages).
The EPA provides more information HERE.
My brothers and sisters, with the political visits this week and the actions recently taken by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) and the EPA, it appears that this incident is FINALLY receiving due attention. Let’s continue to pray for the affected residents and clean up crews. May those with health issues be healed. May those tasked with cleanup operate in wisdom and integrity. We ask the Father to protect all from harm and to show His favor in this whole process, in the name of Jesus!
Praise Jesus forevermore!
