Aggrostats

News Release

May 17, 2008 / 4:00 PM (Update)

Train Derailment in Lafayette involves Hazardous Materials

Shortly after 2:30 AM this morning, Lafayette Police Department requested assistance with a train derailment, involving hazardous materials, near the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) rail yard. Six rail cars derailed under the Ambassador Caffery overpass south of I-10. The integrity of one of the hazardous materials cars was compromised and leaking hydrochloric acid.

For the public’s safety, Scott Police Department has evacuated all areas west of Ambassador Caffery to Tressie Road and south to Dulles Road (within a one-mile radius). The evacuation area is east to Cajundome Blvd. The Ambassador Caffery exit ramp at I-10 eastbound and westbound is closed until further notice. A shelter has been established at Carencro High School. A temporary flight restriction is in place over the incident area.

Currently, I-10 is open to all traffic. However, due to potential changes in wind speed/direction or other mitigating circumstances, I-10 could be closed partially or entirely. If this should occur, Louisiana State Police, DOTD, Lafayette Police Department, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Scott Police Department, and the Carencro Police Department are prepared to take immediate action.

Louisiana State Police Hazardous Materials Unit is currently coordinating with BNSF Railroad, LA DEQ and all local agencies to mitigate this situation.

Five minor injuries have been reported in relation to this incident. Acadian Ambulance is standing-by in the event medical treatment is necessary.

Any significant updates will be forwarded as necessary.

For more information, please contact:

Tfc David Anderson OR Sgt. Julie Lewis

Louisiana State Police Louisiana State Police

Troop I Public Affairs North District Public Affairs

David.Anderson@dps.la.gov Julie.Lewis@dps.la.gov

www.lsp.org