Clean Up Efforts Continue After Train Derailment Near Campground In Newport, Maine

Several train cars came off railroad tracks in Newport this week.

According to the Newport Fire Department Assistant Chief Turner, the derailment happened in the early morning hours on Tuesday near Christy's Campground. It was not immediately clear as to why the train went off the tracks?

"The incident damaged tracks between Palmer Road and Old Bangor Road, and an investigation is currently underway. CSX officials have been hesitant to release information, and it is unclear why there was a delay in involving the fire department. Our team was dispatched to the scene at 12:11 pm only after a concerned citizen made the call. Fortunately, no injuries or environmental issues were reported, thanks to the diligence of our crew!!!!"

Fire officials from Newport say crews from the railway were working well into the night to get the debris from the derailment, which occurred between Peck Drive and Elm Street, cleaned up.

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"The incident itself occurred away from any road crossings, and CSX informed us they would use flaggers for anything that may impact traffic. At this point, I think it's pretty well-marked and away from the road. "

According to company that runs the rail line, CSX, they are the "leading supplier of rail-based freight transportation in North America."

Based out of Jacksonville, Florida the rail service carries goods to half the nation.

"Overall, the CSX Transportation network encompasses about 20,000 route miles of track in 26 states, the District of Columbia and the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Our transportation network serves some of the largest population centers in the nation. Nearly two-thirds of Americans live within CSX’s service territory."

A representative from CSX says things should be back to normal today.

"The four freight cars were rerailed yesterday and normal train operations have resumed. The cause of the incident remains under investigation. "