Illinois derailment closes highway, damages tracks

Crews assess the damage to the railroad track after a train derails in Fairmont City, Ill.

Fox2Now

An Alton and Southern Railway train has derailed in Fairmont City, Ill., blocking traffic on Highway 3.

The accident happened at 11:45 p.m. on Jan. 21. Crews were still working on the track the next morning, as the derailment caused the rail to break away from fasteners and crossties. About 350 ft of track has been damaged. Officials were hoping to have Highway 3 back open by Noon on Friday, but there are no indications that will happen.

A total of six railcars left the tracks. Four were empty, but the other two were loaded with automobiles.

No injuries were reported and investigators are on the scene to try and figure out what caused the derailment.

Railway Track & Structures will have more information if and when it becomes available.

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