
From Agence France-Presse
At least five people were killed and dozens injured after a train derailed and overturned in Philadelphia late last night.
Emergency personnel said six of the injured were in critical condition and 53 others were less critically hurt amid chaotic scenes after at least seven train cars, including the engine car, were crushed, turned over on their side or left upside down.
“It is an absolute disastrous mess. I have never seen anything like this in my life and most personnel will say that, as well,” Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter told reporters.
But Nutter warned that the casualty and injury estimates were only preliminary, hinting at the potential for a higher toll.
Hydraulic tools had to be used to remove passengers from some of the most badly damaged train cars, emergency personnel said.
Former US Congressman Patrick Murphy of Pennsylvania was on the train.
“Im ok. Helping others. Pray for those injured,” he tweeted. Delaware Senator Tom Carper was on board but got off just before the derailment.
Murphy, who was on board the restaurant car, said the train seemed to be going 60-70 miles (97-113 kilometers) per hour when it suddenly derailed and rolled. Passengers had to kick out a window to exit.
Some of the injured — many with bloodied hands and faces — were unable to move, Murphy said.
Initial reports had indicated that 10 of the train cars were affected by the accident.
At least one of the train cars appeared crushed and turned on its side. A large metal beam was rammed into another car, though it was unclear whether it had fallen onto the car or the car had crashed into it.
Part of the train turned into an L-shape.
The train had so much force at the time of the crash that it bent the sturdy rail tracks in at least one area.
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