'Multiple fatalities' aboard Amtrak train following derailment south of Seattle

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Pierce Co Sheriff‏ / @PierceSheriff / Twitter

(AP) -- An Amtrak train derailed south of Seattle on Monday, and authorities reported "injuries and casualties."

The train derailed about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of Seattle before 8 a.m., spilling at least one train car on to busy Interstate 5.

 

 

The Pierce County Sheriff's office said in a tweet that the train was heading south and that there were "injuries and casualties," but no numbers were immediately available.

All southbound lanes of Interstate 5 were closed south of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and motorists were being warned to avoid the area.

Chris Karnes was on the train, three or four cars back from the front.

"I'm not sure what got hit. I'm not sure what happened," Karnes said.

He was unhurt but near the medical tents set up in a median area between north- and sound-bound I-5, just south of DuPont.

"The only car that is on the tracks is the rear locomotive. There are several cars that are hanging over the overpass," Karnes said.

 

 

In a statement Amtrak said the train that derailed was Train 501, offering service from Seattle to Portland.

"Emergency services are on the scene and Amtrak management is responding. Some injuries are reported," Amtrak said.

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This is a developing story; check back for updates.