Health and environmental concerns are mounting in East Palestine, Ohio, after several derailed train cars released toxic fumes last week.
On Feb. 3, about 50 cars of a Norfolk Southern train went off track in Ohio, causing a days-long fire in the area. Ten of the 50 derailed cars contained hazardous chemicals including butyl acrylate and vinyl chloride, which were among combustible liquids that authorities feared could set off a major explosion.
Residents of East Palestine were later asked to evacuate out of precaution. On Monday, Feb. 6, crews conducted what officials called a "controlled release" of the hazardous chemicals, which caused a large plume of black smoke.
The evacuation order was lifted on Wednesday and since then, there have been a growing number of reports about people experiencing a burning sensation in their eyes, animals falling ill and a strong odor lingering in the town.
Some business owners and East Palestine residents have filed lawsuits against Norfolk Southern, saying the company was negligent and demanding the company fund court-supervised medical screenings for serious illnesses that may be caused by exposure to those chemicals.
For Kasie Locke and her husband, Nate, a toxic release of chemicals following a train derailment near their town, on the border between Ohio and Pennsylvania, has left their dream of a happy life in a close-knit community in disarray.
They are just one example of many residents and businesses that have expressed concerns about the safety of returning to East Palestine after residents were evacuated so emergency responders could undertake a controlled burn of the vinyl chloride in five rail cars to avoid a massive explosion. However, it released the toxic gases hydrogen chloride and phosgene into the air.
The couple moved to East Palestine as newly weds on February 3, 2022—exactly 12 months before the derailment occurred.
"We were so excited because we loved the little town and how close knit everyone was and how peaceful it is," she said. "There's a real sense of community."Watch video