Train derailment in Suffolk.SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Suffolk police are on scene investigating a train derailment in the 300 block of Wellons Street in Suffolk.
Dispatchers were alerted at 6:52 a.m. about the incident involving a Norfolk Southern train. No injuries have been reported.
A spokesperson for Norfolk Southern Corp. says the train was traveling through Suffolk when 44 coal cars derailed. Crews are currently removing the damaged coal cars and spills from the tracks.
The Golden Peanuts warehouse building was damaged by coal spilled from the train, according to Suffolk Police Department. In addition, a home in the 300 block of Wellons Street sustained two broken windows from coal debris, and a car back window was broken from being stuck by coal in the same area.
“I heard a big boom sound, like almost sounding like a big freight train,” said Andrea Harris, who lives nearby. “And then I saw smoke when I was looking out of my bedroom window, and sparks.”
PHOTOS: Several train cars derailed in Suffolk
Suffolk Public Works Traffic Engineering has shut off the traffic signal at East Washington Street and Pinner Street, and this stop is being controlled by signs.
The 300 block of Wellons Street is closed, as well as East Washington Street at County Street, East Washington Street at Pinner Street, and East Washington Street at Liberty Street.
“I heard a whole lot of noise,” said Barbara Deloatch, who also lives nearby. “I jumped down off the bed and ran to the door. I opened the door and then I saw the train pile.”
Clean-up efforts are expected to begin after Norfolk Southern completes their investigation.
Stay with WAVY.com for updates on this developing story.
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