LIVINGSTON, Ky. — Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency in Rockcastle County, in the remote eastern part of the state, following the derailment of a CSX Transportation train earlier today.
About a dozen homes in a remote area of eastern Kentucky were evacuated following the derailment, WLEX-TV reports.
CSX said that the derailment occurred about 2:23 p.m. and that 15 cars were involved in the derailment between Mullins Station and Livingston, Ky., and that two cars containing sulphur had been breached and lost some of their contents. The Rockcastle County towns of Livingston and Piney Branch were being evacuated.
One member of the train’s crew was treated at the scene for minor injuries. CSX told WLEX that “out of an abundance of caution,” about a half-mile area near the derailment site was being evacuated.
“By issuing a state of emergency, we are ensuring that every state resource is available to help keep our families safe,” Beshear said in a statement. “Please stay clear of this area as state, local and CSX officials respond.”
Livingston is about 60 miles south of Lexington, Ky.
— Updated at 6:45 p.m. CST with newer information from WLEX-TV; updated at 8:40 p.m. with declaration of state of emergency.
Share this article
