US train derails, dangles from bridge onto highway

By Safvan Allahverdi

WASHINGTON (AA) - An Amtrak train derailed Monday in Tacoma, Washington, spilling cars on to a busy interstate, authorities said.

The train was on its inaugural run south from Seattle to Portland, Oregon, and there were “injuries and casualties,” but specifics were not immediately available, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Office and Amtrak, or the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

"We are aware of an incident involving Amtrak train 501," Amtrak said in a statement. "We will update with additional details as they become available."

According to authorities, at least two train cars fell onto the highway and all lanes of car traffic remain blocked on Interstate 5 while emergency crews respond to the scene as a potential mass casualty incident.

The state’s Department of Transportation tweeted a photograph of the accident that showed a train car dangling from the tracks onto the highway below. It urged motorists to avoid the area.

The train was part of a new high-speed service that launched Monday, a local television station reported.

“Thank you to the first responders on the scene. We’re praying for everyone on board the train, and ask everyone to hold them in your thoughts,” Washington Gov. Jay Inslee tweeted.

Authorities said 75 people were on board the train when it derailed and multiple motorists were injured on the roadway.

The cause of the derailment is under investigation.