TL/DR –
A freight train derailed in Matteson, leading to the brief evacuation of residents and businesses due to a suspected leak. The Canadian National updated that a car containing liquified gas did leak a limited amount of product, but it was quickly contained and there is no ongoing danger to the public. An estimated 25 cars left the tracks during the derailment, with clean-up ongoing and no clear timeline for when regular traffic will resume in the area.
Freight Train Derailment Causes Brief Evacuation in Matteson
A freight train derailment in Matteson on Thursday morning resulted in temporary evacuations of nearby residents and businesses due to a suspected liquid gas leakage.
Both a mandatory evacuation order was issued and Metra train services were halted following the derailment at the junction of 217th Street and Main. Canadian National, the involved company, later affirmed that a car was indeed leaking a “limited quantity” of liquified gas, however, the situation was quickly contained, eliminating any further public safety threats.
Local officials and Matteson’s Mayor, Sheila Chalmers-Currin, reiterated the assurance of safety, stating that the leaked propane residue, though flammable, posed no ongoing danger. Chalmers-Currin also mentioned the support offered by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Rep. Robin Kelly in the aftermath of the derailment.
According to Matteson Fire Chief Michael Bacon, there were no reported injuries or fires at the site. He confirmed that the leak was indeed propane residue.
Cleanup operations are ongoing at the derailment site, with about 25 cars estimated to have derailed. The timeline for the resumption of regular traffic in the affected area remains uncertain. Meanwhile, operations on the Metra Electric Line have been reinstated, as per official updates.
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