Pennsylvania school district sues Norfolk Southern over East Palestine train derailment – CNN
(CNN) A Pennsylvania school district is suing Norfolk Southern for negligence stemming from last month’s train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, and the subsequent “controlled” release of toxic chemicals at the derailment site .
The Blackhawk School District in Beaver County alleges that “toxic fires and deadly plumes threw a deadly cocktail at (their) buildings, property, soil and water supplies where deposits of toxic substances have been found,” the complaint said. Has gone. The school district is just above the state border and within 15 miles of East Palestine.
The Blackhawk School District is seeking a trial by jury and compensation for the medical problems caused by the injuries and damages to its students and employees, the risk for future illnesses, and the need for future monitoring of its properties The complaint continues.
Norfolk Southern declined to comment, citing pending litigation.
The February 3 incident resulted in the derailment of 10 cars carrying hazardous materials. Five of the train cars contained vinyl chloride, a potentially explosive chemical. An evacuation zone was established and a controlled release of the chemical followed three days later.
The school district alleged in its lawsuit that “reckless, negligent, ultra-dangerous and/or willful conduct” of Norfolk Southern Corporation, “without regard for the Blackhawk School District, its students and employees,” resulted in the release of toxic chemicals . railway Company.
Jordan Shuber, an attorney for the Blackhawk school, said, “The Blackhawk School District’s primary focus is to ensure the safety of students, staff and families within its district. The lawsuit seeks to hold Norfolk Southern responsible for any impact on the community. ” District. “Norfolk Southern needs to step up to the plate in Pennsylvania.”
According to the complaint, the Blackhawk School District covers an area of 69 square miles and includes students from both Beaver and Lawrence counties in Pennsylvania.
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