A freight train derailment in Mansfield, Connecticut, on , has disrupted transportation and prompted emergency responses, though initial assessments indicate no injuries and no immediate evidence of hazardous leaks. The incident, involving a 43-car New England Central Railroad train, occurred around 9:08 a.m., leading to the closure of Route 32 between Route 44E and Route 75, a closure expected to last for an extended period.
Derailment Details and Hazardous Materials
Fourteen of the train’s 43 cars derailed, with six carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Critically, four of those LPG tankers ended up partially submerged in the Willimantic River. While concerns immediately focused on potential leaks, officials have stated that, as of a noon press conference, no leaks have been detected from any of the derailed cars. Continuous monitoring is planned until the site is fully cleared, a process expected to take days.
Beyond the LPG, the train was also carrying cooking grease, lumber, grain and other general goods. One derailed car leaked approximately 2,500 gallons of cooking grease, but authorities report this spill has been contained. The presence of LPG, a highly flammable substance, prompted a shelter-in-place order for residents within a half-mile radius of 1090 Stafford Road as a precautionary measure.
Emergency Response and Road Closures
The derailment triggered a significant emergency response, involving local fire departments, state police, and the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Mansfield Fire Chief John Roache emphasized the complexity of the cleanup, noting the remoteness of the location will necessitate a multi-day effort. Cranes were dispatched to the scene on afternoon, with additional equipment scheduled to arrive morning.
Route 32 remains closed between Routes 275 and 44, impacting local traffic. Town officials are coordinating with school bus services to establish alternative routes for afternoon transportation, and are communicating updates to families. UConn reported no impact to operations on its Storrs campus and no evacuations were necessary.
Limited Environmental Impact Reported So Far
The incident raised immediate concerns about potential environmental contamination, particularly given the presence of derailed cars in the Willimantic River. However, initial assessments by DEEP indicate no hazardous fuel leaks at the time of reporting. Air monitoring is ongoing to ensure continued safety. The New England Central Railroad confirmed that two cars derailed along the riverbank, with four entering the water.
Freight Operations and Potential Disruptions
The derailment highlights the inherent risks associated with freight rail transportation, particularly when carrying hazardous materials. While New England Central Railroad has not yet provided a detailed assessment of the cause of the derailment, the incident will likely prompt a thorough investigation by both the railroad and relevant regulatory bodies.
The disruption to rail traffic could have broader implications for supply chains in the region, although the extent of these impacts remains unclear. The incident underscores the importance of robust safety protocols and emergency response plans for freight rail operators. The railroad stated that as of midday , none of the cars were leaking, but they are being constantly monitored.
No Injuries Reported
State police confirmed that there were no injuries reported in connection with the derailment. The train was staffed by a conductor and an engineer, both of whom were unharmed. This positive outcome contrasts sharply with the potential for significant harm given the nature of the cargo and the circumstances of the derailment.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are continuing to assess the damage and develop a comprehensive plan for the removal of the derailed cars and the restoration of rail service. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
