CSX Train of Empty Coal Cars Derails in Fayette County

This is a developing story. Please check back for more details.

Updated Tuesday, April 17 at 12:06 p.m.

New River Gorge National River spokeswoman Julena Campbell said in a news release the engine that derailed landed on its side near the New River.

She said no diesel fuel spilled and that crews are working to remove 5,000 gallons of fuel from the locomotive. CSX stated the ten derailed cars remained upright.

Campbell said the track is expected to reopen Tuesday.

Original Post, April 16 at 3:20 p.m.

A CSX train of empty coal cars has derailed in Fayette County. No injuries have been reported.

The train was traveling from Clifton Forge, Virginia to Hutchinson, West Virginia to pick up coal, according to a release from CSX.

The release went on to say that the derailment happened just after 9:30 Monday morning when the lead locomotive ran into a rockslide just south of the Thayer Post Office road crossing in Thurmond, WV. The collision derailed 10 empty railcars.

Preliminary reports indicate the nose of the locomotive narrowly dipped into the New River, which is adjacent to the tracks. Recent rain has resulted in higher than normal water conditions in the New River.

CSX personnel are working with local first responders to assess the situation. CSX is taking steps to protect the river and surrounding area and develop a recovery plan.

The train consisted of two locomotives and 97 empty railcars.

Full Statement from CSX Spokesperson:

“Just after 9:30 a.m. today, a CSX train headed to Hutchinson, WV derailed the lead locomotive and several empty railcars after colliding with a rockslide just south of the Thayer Post Office road crossing in Thurmond, WV.  Preliminary reports indicate the nose of the locomotive narrowly dipped into the New River, which is adjacent to the tracks. Recent rain has resulted in higher than normal water conditions in the New River. Ten covered hoppers have derailed and are upright and inline. CSX personnel are working with local first responders to assess the situation and take steps to protect the river and surrounding area. The safety of the community, the environment and everyone on site is our top priority as we develop a recovery plan. The train consisted of two locomotives and 97 empty railcars.”

Note from Lawrence Messina, Director of Communications, W.Va. Dept. of Military Affairs & Public Safety:

“DMAPS is monitoring, but Fayette officials are handling the response.”