BNSF Director of Public Affairs Andy Williams says the train involved in a five-car derailment this morning near Seminary Street has been moved.
The accident caused damage to multiple rail crossings in town from Chambers to Farnham Streets. Galesburg Police Captain Rodney Riggs has confirmed that crossings at Chambers and Locust streets remain closed at this time, however, all other affected crossings have re-opened.
The train was headed west when various cars jack-knifed onto the eastbound track.
Knox County Emergency Management Coordinator Tom Simkins tells Galesburg’s Morning News on WGIL that cleanup crews have some work to do, specifically to the crossings.
“The Foreman here says that practically all of the crossings have some type of damage–I don’t know if it’s the signaling or to the crossing itself but between here (Chambers St.) and Farnham.”
Simkins says that it will likely take some time before repairs will be able to be made.
Simkins adds that the train was empty and headed into a nearby railyard when the accident occurred. No hazardous materials were being transported.
BNSF personnel, GPD and city cleanup crews with heavy machinery were all seen at the site of the accident.
Updated at 12:10 p.m. to reflect the comments of BNSF Director of Public Affairs Andy Williams and Galesburg Police Captain Rodney Riggs.
