Freight train derailment near Plainfield causes crude oil spill
SUN TIMES MEDIA WIRE - A freight train carrying crude oil derailed Friday in southwest suburban Plainfield, causing an oil spill that closed several roads overnight.
The Canadian National freight derailed as it headed south about 6:30 p.m. east of 143rd Street and Van Dyke Road, according to Plainfield police and Canadian National spokesman Patrick Waldron.
Multiple cars of the train were carrying crude oil, but only one was thought to be leaking, Waldron said. The railway has initiated its emergency response plan, with hazmat and environmental teams responding to the scene.
Plainfield police and fire officials remained on scene late Friday to prevent potential fires and to keep oil from reaching the DuPage River, police said. A few businesses nearby were evacuated, but no homes were affected.
Several roadways were closed overnight, including 143rd Street, Naperville/Plainfield Road, Route 126 (Main Street), Center Street, Eastern Avenue, Lockport Street and Riverwalk Court, police said. All streets except for Riverwalk were reopened by 9:35 a.m. Saturday.
Businesses on Riverwalk were expected to remain closed for the next day or two, police said.
No fires or injuries were reported, Waldron said. People were told to avoid the area until further notice.