A file picture of a Canadian National Railway freight car in Toronto.
Brent Lewin | Bloomberg | Getty Images
A freight train derailed in a Chicago suburb on Thursday and sparked evacuations of nearby homes and businesses.
The train derailed at 217th Street and Main in Matteson, NBC Chicago reported. A mandatory evacuation was underway amid a suspected leak from the derailed cars.
The evacuation affects people and businesses within a quarter-mile east, one mile west and one mile south of the site, according to the news station.
Canadian National Railway said in a statement to NBC News that the derailment involved about 25 cars “carrying various substances.” There are no fires or reports of injuries, a spokesperson said.
One car containing residue liquified petroleum gas leaked a limited amount, the spokesperson said, adding that it has since been contained.
“There is no danger to public safety,” the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. “A precautionary evacuation was ordered but has since been lifted except for properties immediately adjacent to the site.”
The cause of the derailment is under investigation.
Matteson police said additional information will be released later Thursday.
Matteson is a village in Cook County, Illinois, about 30 miles south of downtown Chicago.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
