At least two people were killed and 70 others injured when a train carrying 147 people and a freight train collided in the eastern US state of South Carolina, authorities said.
The Amtrak train — Train 91 — traveling between New York and Miami derailed in Cayce, outside the state capital Columbia, in the collision with the CSX freight train, which took place at around 2:30 am (0730 GMT) Sunday.
Amtrak, the national US railway service, said in a statement that the lead engine derailed along with some passenger cars. Eight crew members and 139 passengers were on board.
US media reported injuries ranged from cuts and bruises to broken bones.
The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department confirmed all passengers had been evacuated. The local Red Cross opened a shelter in a school to help passengers.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it was investigating the incident.
Officials added that although 5,000 gallons of fuel spilled…