NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. — The New Kent County Sheriff’s Office says crews are responding to a train derailment that happened Saturday between Roxbury Road and South Mountcastle Road.
Preliminary reports indicate at least 15 coal cars and two locomotives came off the tracks and derailed into nearby wetlands. The train was heading southwest at the time of the derailment.
CSX officials confirmed there were no injuries and said none of the cars involved were carrying hazardous materials, adding there is no danger to the surrounding community.
“We appreciate the swift response of local first responders,” CSX said in a statement. “Safety will be our highest priority as our teams work to secure the site, recover the equipment and product, and completely restore the area. The cause of the incident is under investigation.”Multiple agencies are assisting, including the New Kent and James City fire departments, CSX Police, and Charles City County emergency crews. CSX Police will lead the investigation into what caused the derailment.
The derailment is also affecting Amtrak service between Newport News and Richmond. According to Amtrak Northeast Alerts, Train 124 is canceled between Newport News (NPN) and Richmond (RVR), and Train 99 is canceled between Richmond and Newport News. Alternate bus transportation is being arranged for affected passengers.
Officials say the only roadway impacted is Barnetts Road in Charles City County. Residents are urged to avoid the area while emergency personnel and railroad officials conduct recovery operations.
