An Amtrak train that derailed in Missouri on Monday was traveling from Los Angeles to Chicago. The Train derailed after it hit a truck.
“They’ve got every rescue helicopter and crew here from every direction,” one shaken passenger said. “We are in Chariton County, Missouri. The train toppled over on its side. Every seat was sold out full, and they were packing people into the observation car because they were so full. There are plenty of people on back boards being taken away by paramedics.”
An official with the Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed injuries but declined to provide a specific number. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources described the derailment as a “tragic,” The train was traveling at about 90 mph.
In a statement, Amtrak said several cars derailed at 1:42 p.m. “after striking a dump truck at a public crossing in Mendon, Missouri.”
“There are approximately 243 passengers onboard with early reports of injuries,” the statement said. “Local authorities are currently assisting customers and we have deployed Amtrak resources to assist.”