Freight Train Derailment in Bensalem Deemed Safe, No Hazardous Leaks Found

Officials have confirmed that no hazardous material leaks were discovered following a freight train derailment in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday afternoon. Earlier advisories for residents to shelter in place or evacuate have been lifted.

“Hazmat personnel have deemed the area safe,” stated the Bensalem Police Department. “There is no threat to the public. All residents may return to their homes and businesses.”

Around 16 freight cars derailed at about 2:15 p.m. between Street Road and the Neshaminy Falls train station, according to reports from NBC10 and 6abc.

Authorities initially assessed the situation to ascertain the contents of the derailed cars, fearing that some might contain hazardous materials. U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick announced that no injuries were reported and noted that his office was in contact with local officials, first responders, and the Department of Transportation.

“This was a freight derailment and did not occur on commuter rail lines,” Fitzpatrick shared on social media. “Local officials have reported several cars involved, which may contain hazardous materials.”

An initial one-mile shelter-in-place order had been implemented. Residents were advised to stay indoors, bring pets inside, close windows, doors, and vents, and turn off any heating and air conditioning systems. People outside the immediate area were requested to avoid the scene and keep nearby roads unobstructed for emergency vehicles.

The incident echoes concerns raised more than three years after the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment, which highlighted issues related to rail safety and the transport of hazardous substances.

Bucks County Emergency Management and Bensalem Township Police Department were unavailable for comments at the time of reporting.