Princeton train derailment closes U.S. 41, no reported injuries at this time

PRINCETON, Ind. -- A train derailment in Princeton Sunday night has closed U.S. 41 in both directions and caused a mandatory evacuation.

Information about how the train derailed is still unknown. In a statement from CSX Transportation, which was operating the train, there were no reported injuries as of 10 p.m. Sunday

Gibson County Sheriff's Office said they received several calls Sunday night about a train derailment and explosion in the area of Old U.S. 41 and Caniff Trailer Court.

First responders reported seeing the derailed train about 2,100 feet west of the mobile home park. CSX said preliminary reports indicate a release from a railcar containing propane.

Sheriff's Office said authorities issued a mandatory evacuation of an area within a one-mile radius.

Traffic northbound on 41 is closed at Indiana 168 and southbound at Indiana 64, according to Indiana State Police.

First responders have gone door to door to businesses and homes within a 1-mile radius evacuating persons from the area. Those displaced can go to the Gibson County Fairgrounds Toyota Events Center.

Statement from CSX Transportation:

“At approximately 8:10 p.m. this evening, a CSX train derailed several railcars near Princeton, IN. Preliminary reports indicate a release from a railcar containing propane. There are no reported injuries at this time.  CSX is working closely with local firefighters and other first responders to assess the situation, and the safety of the community and everyone on site is our top priority as we develop a recovery plan.  The train consisted of two locomotives, 89 loaded railcars and 9 empty railcars.”

The Gibson County Sheriff's Office and Indiana State Police will release more information as it is available.

We will update this story.