14 Train Cars Carrying Flammable Liquified Propane Derail, 5 Cars In River In Mansfield

MANSFIELD, CT — University of Connecticut firefighters are on the scene of multiple overturned train cars off the tracks on Stafford Road in Mansfield, fire officials shared on social media.

The rail line carries freight trains.

The train derailment occurred just before 9:30 a.m. Thursday and involves hazardous materials.

DEEP's Emergency Response Unit is responding to a derailment of 14 train cars, at least 5 of which have landed in the Willimantic River. A large dump truck filled with sand was also see headed to the crash site.

The train cars were carrying a flammable liquefied propane, authorities said. There will likely be at least a half -mile shelter-in-place in effect, if not larger, state officials said. Town of Mansfield officials said residents should avoid Rte. 32, Stafford Road, which is closed between Rte. 275 and Rte. 44. Multiple roadblocks were set up in the area.

Connecticut State Police said preliminary information indicates that at approximately 9:22 a.m., several railcars became detached from a train traveling in Mansfield. Troopers responded, as did the DESPP Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and the DOT.

No injuries have been reported.

"I'm in communication with our state emergency management and environment teams to assess any impacts regarding the train derailment involving hazardous materials in Mansfield. We'll continue to provide updates on the situation as needed," Gov. Ned Lamont said.

In an update, Lamont said, "None of the train cars in today's derailment are leaking. One car carrying cooking grease leaked 2,500 gallons and has been contained. A shelter in place order is in effect for those within 1/2 mile. Route 32 remains closed in the area. Cleanup will take several days."

The Dayville Fire Company said the Killingly Rehab Team has been requested to Mansfield for this incident.

Said state Sen. Jeff Gordon, "Public safety is one of my top concerns. I have reached out to state agencies, including the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and to the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection to get information and discuss about this incident. I have also communicated with the Coventry town government. Coventry is adjacent to the area in Mansfield but has not been affected by the incident. My priority is public safety, and I am closely monitoring the situation. I encourage everyone to follow the guidance of emergency officials, stay informed, and take precautions as necessary if instructed to do so. Avoid the affected area. Thank you to our first responders and state agencies for taking every precaution to manage this incident safely. I will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available."

No other details have been released. This is a breaking news story. Check back for more updates.