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North Bergen, NJ train derailment initially reported as chemical spill, later deemed non-hazardous
By
Phil Corso
Published Apr 14, 2026
Modified Apr 15, 2026
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Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty Images
By
Phil Corso
Published Apr 14, 2026
Modified Apr 15, 2026
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Emergency crews were responding to a freight train derailment in North Bergen, New Jersey, on Tuesday, where officials initially said a railcar was leaking ethyl acetate, but later said the material involved was polyethylene and did not pose a public safety hazard.
A spokesperson for CSX, the rail company, said 13 cars derailed around 3:16 p.m. near Tonnelle Avenue. The cause of the derailment was not immediately known, the spokesperson said.
No injuries were reported and there was no confirmed danger to the public, according to the North Bergen Police Department.
Officials initially identified the substance as ethyl acetate, according to a statement from Mayor Nick Sacco and said hazmat crews were working to mitigate a potential spill. Emergency responders also reported a strong odor that caused irritation, including burning eyes.
But officials later said the material involved was polyethylene, which they said does not pose an imminent public safety hazard. Other authorities said there was no confirmed hazardous materials spill.
Officials said police, firefighters and hazmat teams from Jersey City were working to mitigate a potential spill by diluting it with large amounts of water.
Authorities said Route 3 was temporarily closed in both directions near Tonnelle Avenue while Tonnelle Avenue itself remained open.
A New Jersey Transit spokesperson said the derailment did not affect rail service.
The Environmental Protection Agency said it was notified of the derailment and was coordinating with state and local agencies, but did not deploy personnel.
Officials said an investigation was underway and more information would be released as it becomes available.
This story has been updated with new information.
Tagged
new jersey
public safety
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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