No Injuries When a Washout Caused a Train to Derail in Orneville

Crews are working to clear up a train derailment that happened Wednesday morning in Orneville.

When Did the Train Go Off the Tracks?

A call placed to the Milo Fire Department, before dawn, at approximately 4 a.m. Three engines and six rail cars were derailed in the town of Orneville Township, which is located in Piscataquis County, east of Milo. WGME-TV reports that no one was hurt, although the crew was taken to a local hospital to get checked out.

Why Did the Train Derail?

The incident was caused by a washout. Recent heavy rains have been causing roadway washouts, as well, keeping crews busy doing repairs. The Piscataquis County Sheriff's Office say traffic on Route 16 may be down to one lane, at some point, while heavy equipment is moved into place to lift the train cars.

Were There Any Dangerous Chemicals on the Train?

Inspectors with the Maine Department of of Environmental Protection are on the site, since the train was carrying a variety of substances, including asphalt, tar, and carbon dioxide. So far, there's no indication of any danger or contamination from the wreck.

The cleanup is expected to take a couple of days. Motorists should give themselves a little extra time while traveling in that area of Route 16 in Orneville Township.

We'll update this story as more details become available.