Train carrying hazardous materials derails after striking trailer in Hall, Banks counties

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — A Norfolk Southern freight train derailed Thursday after striking a flatbed tractor-trailer hauling an excavator at the Yonah-Homer Road railroad crossing, according to Banks County Fire Chief Steve Nichols.

Nichols said units with Banks County Fire and Emergency Services responded to the derailment at 11:50 a.m.

According to Nichols, the northbound freight train struck the trailer while it was crossing the tracks on Yonah-Homer Road. The collision caused three locomotives and eight rail cars to derail and overturn.

Nichols said the train was carrying hazardous materials, but none of the hazardous cargo was affected by the derailment.

The driver of the tractor-trailer suffered minor injuries and was transported by Hall County EMS to a hospital in stable condition, Nichols said. No injuries were reported among railroad personnel.

Authorities said when the train derailed, portions of it came to rest in both Hall and Banks counties, prompting Banks County crews to assist Hall County emergency responders until they were released from the scene at 12:28 p.m.

The Georgia State Patrol and Norfolk Southern Railroad are investigating the crash.

Earlier Thursday, the Hall County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were assisting with traffic control following the derailment near Old Cornelia Highway and Yonah-Homer Road.

The Banks County Sheriff’s Office also responded to assist emergency personnel in the area of Yonah-Homer Road, North County Line Road and Old Cornelia Highway. Officials warned motorists to expect delays on Barrett Road and Moccasin Gap Road because of the length of the train and urged drivers to avoid the area.

The derailment prompted multiple railroad crossing closures in Hall County, including:

• Main Street at Eighth Street in Lula
• Old Cornelia Highway at Moccasin Gap Road
• Old Cornelia Highway at Barrett Road
• Old Cornelia Highway at Yonah-Homer Road

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In addition, officials closed Old Cornelia Highway northbound at Mud Creek Road and southbound at the Habersham County line.

Authorities said the Yonah-Homer Road crossing will remain closed until the investigation is completed.