Coal train derailed Tuesday morning at Bremo Bluff

A coal train traveling through southeastern Fluvanna County derailed early Tuesday morning.

“At approximately 4:50 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Jan. 7, a CSX train derailed 25 rail cars containing coal at a private crossing near Bremo Bluff, Virginia,” reads a statement from CSX. “No injuries were reported, and the cause of the incident is currently under investigation.”

According to a release sent out Tuesday morning by the Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office, multiple public safety responders were on hand to assist with the situation and help with assessment.

“There have been no injuries reported and at this time no immediate environmental concerns have been found,” the release continues. “Representatives from CSX are on-scene and evaluating recovery and cleanup plans.”

According to an article on trains.com, the derailment occurred on CSX’s Rivanna Subdivision about 66 miles west of Richmond.

By the afternoon an incident report was published on the website of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. The derailment occurred at Mile Post CAB61 in Bremo Bluff and no pollution has been reported so the incident was closed.

“Per CSX, no release of coal or hazmat,” reads a note. “All cars were upright.”

No water bodies were threatened according the DEQ report.

Photo information: CSX, Danville, IL, Railroad rolling stock or misc, 1987; digital copy of print. Complete indexed photo collection at WorldHistoryPics.com. (learn more)

Before you go: This article was originally sent out as part of the Charlottesville Community Engagement newsletter in the January 7, 2025 edition. Both are functions of Town Crier Productions. You can support the work by purchasing a paid subscription or contributing monthly through Patreon. You can also send in a check or send an email, but drop me a line first.