Freight Train Derails in New Jersey

A CSX freight train derailed on April 14, 2026, in North Bergen, New Jersey, resulting in the spill of a flammable liquid and the temporary closure of a major highway.

The incident occurred shortly after 3 p.m. Near Tonnelle Avenue. While CSX reported that 13 cars derailed, the public safety commissioner for North Bergen stated that 11 cars left the tracks, with seven of those tilted or overturned and four remaining upright.

Hazardous Materials and Emergency Response

Emergency responders, including North Bergen Police, Fire Department, EMS units, and hazmat teams, arrived at the scene to assess the situation. North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue also confirmed their presence and initiated an investigation into the cause of the derailment.

Officials identified three rail cars on their sides as primary concerns due to the flammable liquids they contained. One of these cars contained ethyl acetate, which spilled from the container. Two other cars contained flammable liquids—one with hex aldehyde and another with holly propane—but these cars did not leak.

Hazmat teams worked to mitigate the ethyl acetate spill by diluting the chemical with large amounts of water. Public safety officials stated that the leak was stopped quickly and did not catch fire.

Public Safety and Infrastructure Impact

No injuries were reported following the derailment. North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco stated there was no danger to the public. The affected CSX tracks are used for freight and do not serve passenger trains, although they cross over passenger lines just above the site.

As a precautionary measure, Route 3 was closed in both directions near Tonnelle Avenue. The highway remained closed until late on April 14, 2026, when it was reopened. Tonnelle Avenue remained open throughout the incident.

Governor Mikie Sherrill stated she had been briefed on the matter and expressed gratitude toward the first responders for their efforts in mitigating the potential disaster.

Recovery and Investigation

CSX, the private company responsible for the trains and tracks, deployed cranes to work through the night of April 14, 2026, to pull the derailed cars upright and return them to the tracks.

Our primary focus is on the safety of onsite personnel, the surrounding community, and the environment

CSX statement

North Bergen Public Safety Commissioner Allen Pasqual noted that there was no visible crash impact at the site. CSX is currently investigating the cause of the derailment.