Freight train derails in north bergen, spills flammable chemical near route 3

Officials say hazmat crews contained leak of ethyl acetate and no injuries were reported

North Bergen, NJ — A freight train derailment in North Bergen spilled a flammable chemical and forced road closures near a major highway, though no injuries were reported, officials said.

The incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday, near 2425 Tonnelle Avenue, where a CSX train derailed, according to local authorities.

Multiple rail cars derail, chemical leak contained

Officials said 11 freight cars derailed, with seven left leaning and three fully on their side.

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One of the overturned cars released ethyl acetate, a highly flammable liquid, prompting an immediate hazardous materials response. Two other toppled cars contained flammable substances — including propylene and hexaldehyde — but did not leak.

Hazmat crews from Jersey City worked to contain the spill, successfully stopping the leak and diluting the chemical with large amounts of water to reduce risk.

Road closures, emergency response

As a precaution, Route 3 was shut down in both directions near Tonnelle Avenue during the emergency response. The highway later reopened Tuesday night, while Tonnelle Avenue remained open.

North Bergen Police, Fire Department, and EMS units responded alongside hazmat teams to secure the scene and monitor conditions.

Key Points
• 11 freight cars derail in North Bergen near Route 3
• Ethyl acetate spill contained by hazmat crews using water dilution
• No injuries reported; highway temporarily closed as precaution

Officials say no public danger

Mayor Nicholas Sacco said the situation was quickly brought under control and does not pose an ongoing threat to the public.

Public Safety Commissioner Allen Pasqual said there was no visible crash impact beyond the derailment itself, and the cause remains under investigation by CSX.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said state officials are monitoring the situation and ready to assist if needed.

Ongoing investigation

Cleanup efforts remain underway as officials continue to assess the derailment and determine what caused the incident.

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