Columbia Fire Department crews were on the scene of a train derailment that occurred Monday morning near Longwood Drive (not far from Shop Road.) The Richland County Sheriff’s Department was also on the scene.

The incident happened at around 8:20 a.m. The train was from Atlanta, headed to Charleston. Two railway employees were given medical attention and transported to area hospitals from the site. The CFD is working with SC DHEC and private contractors and rail authorities to get the rail line open as soon as possible. It could take up-to 24 hours to clear.

Norfolk Southern released a statement on the crash: “Norfolk Southern is grateful to the first responders in Columbia for their quick response and taking care of our crew who remain at a local hospital. We have responded to the scene with additional personnel and partners to begin the clean-up and repairs to reopen the track, and appreciate the public’s patience during this process.”

There is an ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash. Results will be reported to the Federal Railroad Administration. (Columbia Fire photos)