Train derailment in Dorchester County triggers shelter-in-place advisory

Emergency responders from several agencies were dispatched Saturday morning after a train derailed in Dorchester County, prompting road closures and safety warnings for nearby residents.

The incident happened close to the KION North America facility, which sits along West 5th North Street, also known as Highway 78. Authorities have not yet released details about what caused the derailment but there has been confirmation that there are no injuries.

Summerville Fire Rescue said residents living within a mile-and-a-half of the site were advised to shelter in place as a precaution, this was later lifted. Initial unconfirmed reports suggest there could have been a chemical spill. Norfolk Southern later clarified that a tank car was identified that normally carries a chemical called chlorobenzene but it was empty at the time of the derailment.

The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Highway 78 has been shut down between Jedburg Road and Industrial Road while crews work at the scene.

Officials said:

“Citizens are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes. Highway 78 is expected to be closed for an extended period of time.”

Drivers are being urged to plan ahead and expect disruptions as the response continues.

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