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A derailed CSX train leaked flammable chemicals and sparked a fire in the rural South kentucky Tuesday, prompting authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order that was later lifted for nearby residents.
CSX said in a statement that 31 cars derailed in Todd County around 6:15 a.m. Central Standard Time and there were no injuries. The derailment caused a leak of molten sulfur inside a train car and sparked a fire that was extinguished by late Tuesday morning, the company said.
Crews on the scene are working to clear the scene “as safely and quickly as possible,” the statement said.
“We are grateful for the quick response and coordination of local first responders and emergency management officials,” the company said. “Our primary focus remains the health and safety of those on site, the surrounding community, and mitigating any potential risks to the environment.”
The company said the leaked chemicals could be toxic if caught on fire. But Todd County Emergency Management Director Ash Groves said air quality tests at the derailment site showed “everything is fine now” and the shelter-in-place order has been lifted.
Todd County authorities have issued a shelter-in-place order for a half-mile around the affected location as a precaution.
The derailment occurred about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) west of downtown Trenton — About 55 miles (88.5 kilometers) northwest nashville, tennessee.