Train Carrying Propane Derails in Queens
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A train carrying thousands of gallons of propane gas derailed at a Queens rail yard yesterday, prompting nearby businesses to evacuate the area.
Officials said the train derailed around 9 a.m., when the operator was backing the 10-car freight train into Maspeth Train Yard near Metropolitan Avenue in Maspeth. Officials speculated yesterday that he may have gone too far, causing one of the cars to slip off the tracks. No leaks were reported from that car, which reportedly was holding some 30,000 gallons of propane.
Meanwhile, dozens of people were evacuated from nearby businesses and homes as the Fire Department and other city agencies worked to restore the train to the tracks.
“It has not been compromised but we are taking every precaution,” FDNY Chief John Acerno said.
