x
Breaking News
More () »

Train derails, catches fire in Brewster

The Brewster Police Department confirms they are on the scene of a train derailment near 100 First Street on Monday night. 

BREWSTER, Ohio -- The Environmental Protection Agency is investigating after a train containing liquid petroleum went off its tracks and caught fire Monday night.

Stark County HAZMAT and as many as 15 local fire departments responded to the scene near 100 First Street in the Village of Brewster, about 60 miles south of Cleveland,

The crash sent a huge plume of fire and smoke into the air. Five other cars derailed, but the reason remains unknown at this time.

Brewster Fire Chief Chris Colucy said the up to 500 residents within a half mile of the scene were asked to leave. They have since been allowed to return to their homes.

Firefighters say it about three hours to contain the fire and patch up the tanker.

The rail yard at First Street SE And South Wabash Avenue is a busy train hub and is not easy to access, according to firefighters. Hundreds of tankers that are stored there contain liquid fuel, so firefighters had to work quickly.

Colucy said it really could have been much worse.

Stay with WKYC.com for updates.

Before You Leave, Check This Out