Train derailment near Bryan, Ohio, causes Amtrak to cancel overnight service

4/19/2010

BRYAN, Ohio - About 30 cars of a Norfolk Southern freight train derailed Monday morning in Melbern, Ohio, blocking a busy rail line between Toledo and Chicago. No one was injured, according to authorities but the derailed cars included flammable methanol.

It was not immediately reported if there was a fire. The derailment occurred starting about 25 cars deep in an 89-car train bound from Chicago to Roanoke, Va., railroad spokesman Rudy Husband said. The cause of the derailment wasn't immediately known.

Amtrak announced Monday afternoon that its service overnight through Toledo would be canceled with no alternative transportation provided. The passenger rail operator said it was making reaccommodation arrangements with affected travelers.

Local fire and emergency personnel were on the scene, according to the Williams County Sheriff's Department which received the report at 9:23 a.m.

Melbern is about five miles west of Bryan and about 55 miles west of Toledo.