A train derailment released toxic chemicals in East Palestine, Ohio, nearly two weeks ago which led to officials ordering residents to evacuate. Despite the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) warning that contaminated soil may not have been properly disposed of, Ohio officials have said it is safe for residents to return. The February 3 derailment caused by a broken axle sent nearly 50 train cars, 10 of which carried vinyl chloride, barreling off the tracks spilling hazardous chemicals. Officials executed a controlled release of vinyl chloride causing thick clouds and a plume of poisonous smoke into the air. Residents who returned are reporting sick and dying animals in the area. A resident 10 miles away in North Lima, Amanda Breshears, said all the chickens she kept died after the controlled burn.
