Just this afternoon around 11:20 a.m. seven train cars derailed in the Bradenton, Florida area.
Two of the seven cars were carrying propane fuel while the other five contained sheet rock, according to Southern Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Robert Bounds.
The incident occurred in the area of 301 Boulevard East and 16th Street East where six train cars reportedly jumped off the tracks and fell over onto their side.
Apparently the seventh car jumped the track as well but did not fall over. Bounds explained to news outlets that the one propane tanker that fell on it’s side was filled with over 30,000 galloons of fuel.
At this time, there has been no reported injuries from the incident and there are no known leaks.
“Right now, we’re kinda just in a ‘wait and see’ phase,” Bounds said.
Manatee County Emergency Medical Services, public safety and sheriff’s office staff were called to the scene to help clear the tracks.
Others that were at the scene of the accident include Seminole Gulf Railway, the Federal Railroad Administration and Florida Department of Transportation.
Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Chair Kevin Van Ostenbridge released a statement saying, “We are proud of our first responders. Their quick action has helped maintain the safety and security of our citizen.”
Bounds told news outlets that the clean-up could take up to three days to complete, with over 150-200 feet of train track being “mangled beyond repair.”
At this time Bounds has assured that there is no true emergency surrounding this derailment, however the potential for one is there. Nearby residents have been warned to be ready to evacuate if deemed necessary.
