INDReporter

Governor declares emergency around derailed train

by Walter Pierce

The Union Pacific train derailed Sunday afternoon near Lawtell, forcing the evacuation of about 100 homes.

LAWTELL, La. (AP) - Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal has declared a state of emergency around the site of a derailed train that leaked a caustic chemical.

The Union Pacific train derailed Sunday afternoon near Lawtell, forcing the evacuation of about 100 homes. Lawtell is about 60 miles west of Baton Rouge.

Company spokeswoman Raquel Espinoza said one railcar was leaking sodium hydroxide, which can cause injuries or even death if it's inhaled or touches the skin. The other was leaking lube oil. But state police said the leaks were contained.

Two people were on the train, an engineer and a conductor. Neither was hurt.

A man who was near the derailment is being treated for a burning sensation in his eyes.

Jindal's declaration, issued Monday, extends through Sept. 2 unless terminated sooner.