Freight Train Derailment Reported in DeKalb County

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

VALLEY HEAD, Ala. — A Norfolk Southern freight train carrying grain partially derailed Friday morning, January 23, in DeKalb County, according to local emergency officials.

The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency reported that approximately five to ten rail cars left the tracks near County Road 761 in the Valley Head area. At this time, officials have not confirmed whether any injuries occurred as a result of the derailment.

Emergency responders and Norfolk Southern train crews were dispatched to the scene and are actively working to secure the area and clear the affected rail cars. Authorities have indicated that there is no known threat to nearby residents.

The DeKalb County Board of Education confirmed that Valley Head School is not in danger and that school operations are expected to continue with minimal impact.

As a precaution, motorists are advised to avoid County Road 137 North of Valley Head and use alternate routes while cleanup efforts remain underway.

This is a developing situation. The Weekly Ledger News will continue to monitor the incident and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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