Two years after the Norfolk Southern train derailment devastated East Palestine, Ohio, community members continue to grapple with the aftermath of exposure to toxic chemicals, sparking fresh legal action and renewed concerns about safety practices on railroads.
On February 3, 2023, the derailment of 53 Norfolk Southern train cars, including those carrying hazardous materials, led to uncontrolled burns and the release of deadly chemicals, including vinyl chloride. The incident forced thousands to evacuate their homes and raised alarms about the long-term health effects on the residents, especially those living near the crash site.
Currently, as the second anniversary approaches, there is still freight train traffic through East Palestine, with Norfolk Southern trains reportedly passing through with hazardous materials similar to those involved in the initial derailment. Private data analyzed by the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism revealed hazardous material-laden trains transit through the area multiple times daily, often without notice to local officials or community members.
According to reports, the trains with placards indicating hazardous substances, such as vinyl chloride, traverse the town at least ten times daily. Residents have raised concerns over their safety and the lack of transparency surrounding these dangerous materials, feeling they are left vulnerable without any obligation from the railroads to inform them of the substances being transported.
"The community is still contaminated, and people are still sick," attorney Kristina Baehr remarked as more than 744 residents filed lawsuits encompassing state and federal claims against Norfolk Southern and various governmental agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The plaintiffs allege these entities have significantly downplayed the contamination's impact and the resulting health risks faced by individuals.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed the initial investigation's findings, noting the controlled burn of vinyl chloride was unnecessary and exacerbated the environmental disaster. Jennifer Homendy, the NTSB Chair, mentioned, "This disaster could have been avoided," reiteration of their fact-finding mission following the hazardous incident.
This environment of fear post-derailment has led to community division. While Norfolk Southern reached agreements, including $22 million to resolve claims with the village and $600 million designated for affected individuals across the board, many believe these settlements fail to address the full extent of harm or provide adequate reparations for the residents. "We demand to know what truly happened—and to understand all of the consequences for us and our community," stated Josh Hickman, lead plaintiff and local resident.
Despite reported clean-up efforts by the federal and local authorities, residents remain skeptical. Health officials conducted surveys following the derailment and reported high levels of respiratory issues among residents. A CDC survey revealed approximately three-quarters of respondents experienced health complications consistent with chemical exposure, including respiratory issues and headaches. Erin Haynes, environmental health scientist at the University of Kentucky, expressed concern over the long-term health effects of the chemical exposure, declaring, "I was shocked...that was the decision to begin with. That meant, 'Oh, now we're gonna expose many more people to unknown chemicals.'"
Research studies initiated by several universities are beginning to document the long-lasting health impacts of the derailment. Dr. Juliane Beier from the University of Pittsburgh is investigating the long-term effects of chemical exposure on liver health, noting alarming results from animal testing which demonstrate links between low-level exposure and the onset of serious illnesses among subjects.
"At any moment, 36 million pounds of vinyl chloride are transported along U.S. railways, which includes areas populated with residential neighborhoods like East Palestine," Dr. Beier said. "We need more attention on the health impacts of chemicals like vinyl chloride and updated safety standards to protect residents."
The political fallout continues with state and federal lawmakers seeking greater accountability and transparency from Norfolk Southern. Vice President J.D. Vance and Governor Mike DeWine are anticipated to visit East Palestine during the anniversary, serving as reminders of the government's responsibility to the residents impacted.
Despite thoughts of moving forward, the emotional scars of the incident linger for many. Linda Murphy, who still grapples with the anxiety of safety, stated, "Are we safe? They still can't answer to this. That's the answer everybody's begging for."
With fresh litigation seeking accountability and clarity about the extent of contamination and health risks arising from the derailment, residents of East Palestine are unwavering. They continue advocating for their rights and demanding sufficient support and action from government officials and regulatory bodies to heal and secure their future.
The struggle for justice, safety, and recovery for residents is far from over, and as inquiries and investigations progress, the hope remains for lasting change to prevent future tragedies.