Train Derailment in Attica Leaves Cars Leaking, No Injuries Reported

SENECA COUNTY, Ohio — A train derailment in Attica late Tuesday night resulted in the leakage of corn syrup and ethanol, although no injuries were reported. The incident occurred around 8:20 p.m., involving approximately 19 cars of the train.

According to the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, the derailment happened on the east side of the village near U.S. 224. Local authorities confirmed that two of the tanker cars were leaking; one contained corn syrup, while the other held ethanol. Fortunately, officials stated there was no risk associated with hazardous materials.

To assess any potential airborne hazards, a drone equipped with detection technology was deployed to the scene. Fortunately, it confirmed that no hazardous materials were released into the environment. The sheriff’s office reported that there was minor property damage limited to the railroad crossing and surrounding ground.

Cleanup efforts commenced shortly after midnight and are anticipated to last one to two days. Until U.S. 224 is assessed for damage and cleared for reopening, traffic is being redirected north on State Route 4 to State Route 162 in Huron County, and then onto State Route 99 to reconnect with U.S. 224.

In a statement, Seneca County Sheriff Fredrick W. Stevens emphasized the commitment to community safety and praised first responders for their quick and efficient action. “What could have been a very disastrous situation was swiftly contained and determined to be safe,” he stated. “We want to extend our appreciation to the community for their support and a huge thank you to all first responders, especially the Attica-Venice-Reed Fire District and CERT.”

Norfolk Southern, the railroad company involved, issued a statement confirming the derailment occurred just before 8:30 p.m., acknowledging that four cars were leaking, including three carrying non-hazardous materials and one containing ethanol. The company assured the public that there were no injuries and no danger to public safety, stressing their close coordination with local emergency services.

In a related historical note, another train derailment occurred in the same area in 2013, which also resulted in no reported injuries.