Unified command continues response to chemical spill following train derailment

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — A Unified Command consisting of the Coast Guard, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, Paulsboro Fire Department, and Conrail continues to coordinate clean-up and air quality monitoring operations Friday following the derailment of seven train cars near East Jefferson Street Bridge, which crosses Mantua Creek.

One train car carrying vinyl chloride began to leak after the derailment. Following the release, multiple teams were dispatched to monitor air quality in the area surrounding the incident.

At approximately 6 p.m., the evacuation of 12 city blocks, approximately 500 residents, was ordered as a precaution.