All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

State agencies responding to CSX train derailment in Summers County

CHARLESTON, WV – A rockslide near the city of Sandstone caused a train derailment early this morning in Summers County. All 109 train cars were empty. The derailment injured three crew members, caused parts of the train to catch fire, and sent at least one locomotive and one fuel tank into the New River.

The site of the accident is located just south of Sandstone inside the New River National Park and Preserve. CSX owns twelve feet from the middle of the track to either side and will be responsible for cleanup. The company is sending a spill response unit that will coordinate with the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) on mitigation and remediation efforts. 

Reports from Summers County Emergency Management state the Sandstone Volunteer Fire Department as the primary on scene, with fire departments from Summers County, Pipestem, and the City of Hinton providing backup.

Located approximately one-half mile from the end of the paved road, the site of the accident is somewhat remote. First responders are being transported to and from the scene by CSX rail trucks.

“I’d like to commend the response agencies and CSX for their quick and efficient response,” said Summers County Emergency Manager Steve Lipscomb. “All the agencies worked as a team to provide prompt medical aid and transportation to the injured.” 

At the time of this report, no roads are closed, nor has there been an evacuation of nearby homes. It is unknown when the tracks will be repaired to allow new rail traffic. Diesel fuel from the wreckage has been observed entering the New River.

Agencies under the Justice Administration, including the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD), the WVDEP, and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) are actively monitoring this developing situation.

Once DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health (BPH) became aware of the incident, notification was made to public water systems downstream and to the local health departments to advise of the accident. BPH is continuing to collect information and monitor the event for any potential public health impacts. 

West Virginia American Water is monitoring and has early detection equipment for their source water. The nearest water intake is in a lake at Hawk’s Nest. If it is confirmed that fuel has entered the water, the fuel is expected to float as it passes by the intake. West Virginia American Water has not shut down their intakes.

Staff from the WVDEP’s Homeland Security Emergency Response and Environmental Enforcement units are on site.  WVEMD is working with state and local partners, as well as the railroad, to monitor the situation throughout the cleanup process. WVEMD is prepared to send resources or other assistance as needed.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.

BCT to light up the stage with Mamma Mia starting this weekend

Buckhannon Community Theatre will present the musical Mamma Mia! at the Colonial Arts Center starting July 12, featuring ABBA hits, lively performances, and a cast assembled from across the region.

St. Joseph’s Hospital supports healthy habits with mile-long midday walks

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has launched a noon walk initiative, inviting staff and community members to join daily one-mile walks to promote physical activity and improve health outcomes.

John Paul Ingram

John Paul Ingram, 83, a beloved Buckhannon resident, ordained minister, and avid outdoorsman who shared his faith and kindness with many, died July 6, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Wesleyan finishes seventh in MEC Commissioners Cup standings

West Virginia Wesleyan finished seventh in the 2024-25 Mountain East Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings, while the University of Charleston captured its eighth consecutive and tenth overall title for all-around athletic excellence.