On Friday afternoon, a Canadian Pacific Railway train carrying crude oil derailed near the Village of Reeseville in Dodge County, resulting in over 30 of its 95 cars leaving the tracks. The incident took place at a familiar location, sharing the setting with a derailment that occurred two years prior, cited to have been caused by a track alignment issue. This repeat of history intensified concerns about the safety and integrity of this particular stretch of railway.
According to a news release from a CPKC spokesperson and emergency officials, the derailment happened just after 2 p.m., with initial assessments showing that some of the flammable crude oil had leaked from the derailed cars. Despite the spillage, it was reported that there was no ignition of the leaked oil. "We've been working with emergency management from Dodge County and mitigate the cars that are currently still leaking. There are no immediate hazards to the community," Fire Chief Eric Howlett told WISN 12 News.
No injuries have been reported in the incident, either to the public or to the crew of the train. The local sheriff's office has highlighted the absence of immediate danger to the community, but nonetheless has requested the public to steer clear from the affected area to allow for emergency crews to manage the situation effectively. As per a FOX6 News release, only one residence in the vicinity made the decision to voluntarily evacuate, facilitating the work of emergency responders.
The derailment's impact extends beyond the crude spill, as the railway line in question is shared with Amtrak, causing several passenger trains to be stalled. Dodger County Sheriff Dale Schmidt, in a statement obtained by WTMJ 4, expressed urgency in addressing this recurring issue, stating “We need to make sure that this doesn't happen again.” Sheriff Schmidt suggested that a reduction in speed limit or alterations to the track's below-grade design could be potential measures to forestall further incidents.
