*This release is provided in partnership with the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office, Dorchester County Fire Rescue, and Dorchester County Emergency Management. 

At approximately 9:51 a.m., Dorchester County Fire Rescue responded to a reported train derailment in the area of 2450 West 5th North Street (Highway 78), near the KION North America plant.

Upon arrival, crews initiated initial assessments to determine any immediate threat to public safety.

As a precautionary measure, a shelter in place request was sent in the immediate area and Dorchester County Government requested additional resources to assist with the response.

As of 2:15 p.m., hazmat has cleared the scene and the shelter in place is lifted. Citizens are still encouraged to avoid the area to allow first responders and interagency partners to safely and efficiently resolve the situation.

Norfolk Southern will begin remediation efforts to address the derailment and begin cleanup and investigation. 

Highway 78 between Jedburg Road and Industrial Road will remain closed for the duration of the incident.