Graniteville Train Derailment

January 6, 2005: A train wreck caused toxic chlorine gas to spill in Graniteville, South Carolina. Officials said eight people have died following a train wreck in Graniteville early Thursday morning and thousands are still unable to return home.

Background:

The derailment occurred when a Norfolk Southern freight train with 42 cars struck a train with one locomotive and two cars at an Avondale Mills textile facility at about 2:40 a.m. Sixteen cars derailed; three of the cars were carrying 90 tons of chlorine each. The Department of Health and Environmental Control said one of those tanker cars ruptured and leaked chlorine gas for most of the day. More than 200 people were treated at local hospitals, and a mandatory evacuation forced the displacement of about 5400 of the town's 7000 residents. It is still unclear when people will be able to return to their homes in Graniteville.

Where can I find additional information?

• 01.11.05, Experts say train wreck could have been averted, thestate.com
• 01.07.05, Potentially deadly chlorine among chemicals spilled after Aiken Co. crash, WIStv.com
• 01.06.05, Officials: Eight Dead In Aiken County Train Crash, thecarolinachannel.com

What can you do:

As the result of a chlorine spill, many lives will change. Some may never be the same. Many individuals may experience physical injury, property damage or devaluation, and other damages as a result of the chlorine spill. This wasn't your mistake, and you shouldn't have to pay the costs. Everyone has a stake: individuals, families, businesses, employees. If you were one of the many affected by the Graniteville chlorine spill, give us a call. Maybe we can help.

For more information, contact attorney Barry Reed at 1.800.493.2827 or click here to send an email.