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Friday, 13 March 2015 10:27

Appreciation from town of Halifax

Written by John White
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On Monday, March 9, 2015, the Town of Halifax saw one of the largest accidents in our long history occur, as an Amtrak Carolinian Passenger Train, with over 200 people on board, collided with a transfer truck at the NC 903/125 and Hwy 301 crossing in Halifax.

While there were over 50 injuries, none appear to be life threatening.

The collision, and resultant clean up and repairs disrupted traffic into and out of Halifax, the Halifax County Seat way into the early hours of Tuesday, March 10, 2015 and halted rail traffic throughout the region.

As bad as this accident was, it could have been much worse.

The fact that there were no fatalities, speaks volumes as to the readiness of our local Fire Departments, EMS, Emergency Management, and Sheriff’s Department.

These agencies had a job to do, and did it well, making all those hours in training and preparation worth it.

The staff at the local hospital-Halifax Regional Medical Center and of Nash/UNC Hospital, who took the overflow from HRMC, also were outstanding.

Also, much appreciation goes out to NC Transportation Secretary, Tony Tata, NC DOT local staff, and NC Highway Patrol for their quick and professional, and well coordinated response.

We would also be remiss not to mention the staff and work crews of Amtrak and CSX, and the various Federal agencies involved for their rapid response.

Because of the level of response to this incident, crews had the trains moving again in about 14 hours after the collision, and the road back open about 24 hours later, both unbelievable and greatly appreciated by the residents and business in and around Halifax.

I would also extend, on behalf of all the many workers and responders to this incident, our great appreciations to the local chapter of the American Red Cross, and the Disaster Intervention Response Team (D.I.R.T) for all the food and other necessities.

I apologize to anyone I may have left out, and I am sure there were several I failed to mention, but please know that the Town of Halifax appreciates each and every one of you, and what you do for our community.

We were very, very fortunate to have your help in what could have been a truly horrific disaster.

Our Town cannot thank you enough.

Sincerely,

John White Mayor, Town of Halifax

 

Assistant Chief, Halifax Fire and Rescue, Inc.

Read 3647 times Last modified on Friday, 13 March 2015 10:30