Runaway train explosion kills 47 and deadly cargo rides the rails. Going 65 miles an hour, the train derailed with no warnings of approachment going through the town.

New York Times states “The runaway train hurtled into the center of town shortly after midnight, with no one aboard to apply the brakes or sound a whistle to warn residents about the deadly cargo bearing down on them. When it reached a tight curve, the freight train lost control. Amid a deafening, horrific screech of rupturing metal, more than a million gallons of fuel spilled and exploded.”

A town of 4700 people consisted of the death of 47. Toxic chemicals and oil spread throughout the area. Soon after, changes occurred for railways leaving inspections and alternative routes a major point in changing safety.