Train derailment prompts evacuation, traffic backups in Middlebury

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(Host) The heart of Middlebury remains closed to traffic as officials work to contain gasoline spilled during a train derailment this afternoon.

Officials say 30 streets were evacuated because two of the train cars are leaking gasoline.

At least some of the gas has flowed into the Otter Creek and environmental officials are trying to control it.

Police say a massive cleanup is going to be required.

Flame retardant foam has been sprayed onto one of the overturned tankers.

A fire broke out after the derailment, but firefighters were able to put out the flames. No one was hurt.

Homes and businesses in the area from about downtown to nearly Middlebury College have been evacuated.

Students at Middlebury Union High School and the elementary school were also evacuated. The schools are in the vicinity of the derailment.

High School students were taken to the middle school. Elementary children were taken to the Salisbury Elementary School, where parents can pick them up.

The American Legion south of town has been opened as an evacuation site.

Vermont Emergency Management Director Barbara Farr says a hazardous materials team is at the derailment.

Officials are urging motorists to avoid the area. Route Seven, Main Street and other roads in the region are closed.

 

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