Crews work overnight at derailed Ayer freight train site
In Ayer, Massachusetts, crews have been working overnight at the derailed freight train site. The derailment occurred when five train cars carrying non-toxic trash and recycling materials toppled over on Thursday. The sight, located near Sculley Road, remains hazardous despite the lack of hazardous materials in the derailed cars.
The crews have been at the site throughout the night, trying to figure out the best course of action to move the train cars and resolve the situation. Fire officials have urged the public to stay clear of the area for safety reasons. The ongoing efforts of the crews will ensure that the derailed freight train cars are removed efficiently and the area is cleared of any potential hazards.
According to investigators, the derailed train was parked on side tracks at the time of the incident. It was carrying 10 containers filled with solid waste that were said to have been properly sealed.
CSX, the owner of the tracks, confirmed that there were no hazardous materials on board the train. Despite this, the local fire department took extra precautions due to the nearby brook and placed booms in the waterway as a precautionary measure.
Ayer Fire Department Chief Tim Johnston stated, "We checked and found no leaks under the train cars, but as a precaution, we placed booms in the nearby waterway to catch any potential spills."
While the commuter rail trains were unaffected and continued to operate on other tracks, there was some impact on service. The commuter rail operator Keolis originally stated that there would be no disruption, but later reported that one train on the Fitchburg Line was running up to 30 minutes behind schedule.
