Hickman County sheriff says train crew unharmed after derailment

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

HICKMAN COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — Hickman County Sheriff Ben Natividad says two train crew members escaped injury after a freight train derailed near the Hickman-Carlisle County line Sunday night.

In a social media post, Natividad said the initial report indicated two people were aboard the train and needed to be located. When he arrived at the scene, the lead locomotive remained upright, while the locomotives and railcars behind it were heavily damaged.

The sheriff said he located both crew members, who were shaken up but not physically injured.

According to Natividad, train personnel advised there were no airborne hazardous materials involved in the derailment. Officials later confirmed there was no threat to public safety.

Emergency responders then coordinated with CN Railroad officials and contractors as cleanup operations began. Natividad said crews have been working continuously since the derailment to restore the area and reopen affected roadways.

The derailment involved approximately 30 railcars and two locomotives, according to emergency management officials.

Natividad thanked local emergency responders, public service agencies and community members who offered assistance during the response effort.

Officials have not announced a timeline for reopening U.S. Highway 51 or completing cleanup operations.