A 31-car CSX freight train derailed in rural Kentucky early Tuesday, prompting local officials to issue an emergency shelter-in-place order after hazardous materials were released.
The derailment occurred in Todd County shortly after 06:00 local time. Officials said at least one rail car was leaking molten sulphur, which can cause burns and release toxic gases such as sulphur dioxide or hydrogen sulphide.
WATCH: 31-car CSX train hauling molten sulfur derails in Todd County, Kentucky, triggering chemical leak and fire; shelter-in-place briefly issued, no damage to nearby homes pic.twitter.com/Y5AQiluzZL
— Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) December 30, 2025
Emergency order issued and later lifted
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the emergency response in a social media post, urging residents to follow local guidance.
“Kentucky, there has been a train derailment in Todd County, and local emergency management has issued a shelter-in-place for the City of Trenton,” Beshear said, adding that residents should stay safe.
Authorities later said the situation was brought under control, and the shelter-in-place order was lifted at around 11:00. No injuries were reported, and there was no damage to nearby homes.
Hazardous materials and response
Images from the scene showed damaged freight cars blocking the tracks, with a white substance visible leaking from one of the cars. Officials identified the leaking material as molten sulphur.
Todd County executive Todd Mansfield told WZTV News that the incident “could have been catastrophic,” highlighting the potential danger posed by the spill.
CSX launches investigation
CSX Transportation said an investigation into the derailment is under way.
“CSX crews remain on scene and are working as safely and as quickly as possible to clean up the impacted site,” company spokesman Austin Staton said. He added that the company appreciated the swift response and coordination of local first responders and emergency management officials.
Past concerns over hazardous shipments
The rail operator has previously faced criticism, including from environmental groups, over concerns related to the transport of hazardous materials and the risk of toxic spills.
Officials have not yet disclosed what caused the derailment.
