Train Service Resumes at Fairfield Metro Station [Update]

Update, 1:14 p.m.

Metro North reports train service has resumed at the Fairfield Metro station.

Firefighters have reported the situation is under control.

Update, 12:12 p.m.

Fairfield firefighters have identified 5NPlus Inc. at 515 Commerce Drive as the business emitting the chemical gallium trichloride, the Connecticut Post reports.

According to its website, 5NPlus Inc. develops chemicals products and specialty metals.

The chemical release was due to "overpressurization," Deputy Fire Chief Art Reid told the Post.

When overpressurization of the chemical occurs, it's released into the air, Reid said. It's reportedly an intentional process and firefighters, police, and manufacturers are working to cut it off within the hour, according to the report.

Update, 12:02 p.m.

Metro North sent the following email to subscribers of its "MTA Alerts" email blasts: 

"Due to police activity in the vicinity of Fairfield Metro, trains are currently unable to stop at the station.  For customers traveling to or from the Fairfield Metro station, it is advised that you make alternate means of transportation to or from the Fairfield or Bridgeport stations for your travel.  We apologize for any inconvenience you may experience as a result of this incident."

Update, 11:44 a.m.

The chemical that was reported released at the scene, gallium trichloride, is not toxic unless heated, is not flammable, and it is not radioactive, according to the Connecticut Post.

It is not considered dangerous but can be irritating:

Acute exposure to the chemical, used to manufacture semiconductors, can cause wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and gastrointestinal problems, the report states.

The leak was believed to be released from Specialty Metals, Smelters & Refiners.

Original Story

Fairfield police and firefighters are currently on scene of what they’re calling a “major hazmat situation” near the intersection of Black Rock Turnpike and Commerce Drive, the Connecticut Post reports.

Police are cordoning off Commerce Drive, portions of Kings Highway, and Black Rock Turnpike and Bridgeport’s Brewster Street, which becomes Black Rock Turnpike at the Fairfield line.

Both pedestrians and vehicles are being blocked from entering the area.

According to the report in the Post, businesses and homes in the area are being evacuated due to the suspected chemical leak of gallium trichloride, which should not be inhaled.

Metro North trains will not be stopping at the Fairfield Metro station for at least an hour while emergency personnel investigate the situation, according to the Post.

The leak started at 201 Commerce Drive, near , around 10:30 this morning.