Cleanup underway after Amsterdam train derailment

All Amtrak tracks from Amsterdam to Schenectady are closed, due to a train derailment. State Route 5 in Amsterdam is also closed in that area, and may stay closed until late Saturday or early Sunday, said investigators.

The derailment happened just after 8 a.m. Friday. It involved a train going from Selkirk to Buffalo. Thirteen of 157 cars were involved in the derailment, according to CSX. Nine of them were empty tank cars.

There are no injuries and no leaking fluids, according to Montgomery County Sheriff Jeff Smith, who confirmed the derailment.

CSX is at the scene investigating.

Gov. Kathy Hochul released the following statement:

“I have been briefed on the train derailment in Montgomery County where several tanker cars came off the tracks this morning and have directed State personnel to provide all necessary assistance to local emergency response officials. The New York State Police, Office of Fire Prevention and Control and Department of Transportation officials are onsite to monitor the situation, assist with the response and manage traffic. At this time, there are no injuries reported and no spills have been detected. Rail traffic has been stopped which will impact Amtrak passenger service, and Route 5 has been closed in both directions. Our top priority is ensuring all railroad workers and nearby motorists are safe and that Amtrak service is restored as quickly as possible.”

Sen. Chuck Schumer released this statement:

“I’m closely monitoring the Montgomery County train derailment. We’re grateful that there were no injuries reported, and we’re thankful for the first responders on the scene.“