Train Derailment With Haz Mat Challenges Crews

Sykesville fire and EMS crews responded along with hazardous materials teams to a CSX train derailment near Marriottsville, Friday morning, December 15.

There were three locomotives and 91 cars on the eastbound train that derailed in the area of the old Henryton Hospital Center between Marriottsville Road and Route 32.

21 of the cars derailed shortly before 3:00 am, including a tanker car carrying anhydrous ammonia.

Crews responding in had to contend with thick fog and the remote location of the incident. Haz mat team members used four wheel drive "Gator" vehicles to reach the scene. An initial recon of the scene showed no ammonia leak.

While Howard County fire officials had the initial command of the incident; command was transferred to Sykesville Deputy Chief Ed Ruch, Jr. when it was determined the derailment was in Carroll County.

A command post was established at the old Henryton State Hospital, and was later relocated to the State Police target range on Slacks Road. A coordinated response with various agencies was planned and implemented.

Crews and heavy equipment were summoned to the scene to right the overturned tank car. Before the righting process could begin, approximately 100 homes in a one mile radius were placed under a voluntary evacuation advisory, while residents within a three mile radius were advised to shelter in place and close all windows and vents. A temporary shelter was set up at the Sykesville fire station.

At approximately 4:00 pm, crews began the slow and deliberate process of righting the tank car. The car was lifted in the air and placed on wheels on the tracks. The work to right the car was completed at 6:50 pm. The evacuation and shelter in place advisories were lifted shortly thereafter.

It was determined that there was no leak from the tanker car. No one was hurt in the derailment or during the emergency response process.

After the tank car was secured on the track, representatives from each agency gathered at the command post for a "Hot Wash" debriefing. It was determined that no hazard remained, and emergency crews were released.

Sykesville fire crews express their thanks to all of the agencies for their cooperation and assistance during the incident; and thanks to area residents for their cooperation and patience.