After loading at a nearby mine, an eastbound loaded coal drag destined for Grafton and points east on the B&O Mountain encountered a rock slide near the community of Gore. A total of six cars and the head end locomotive, SD70MAC No. 4542 derailed. Resting only feet from a nearby home, diesel fuel and coal spilled into the West Fork River, located in the foreground. Taken approximately 20 hours after the derailment, CSX, R.J. Corman, and Environmental Protection crews continue to repair the right of way, clean up derailed equipment, and assist with the containing of spilled fuel and coal. Nobody was injured in the initial derailment, however an employee for R.J. Corman Derailment Services was injured during the cleanup process. Tracks were restored in less than 12 hours after this photo was captured, though the cleanup process extended for several additional days, as crews built and widened a nearby road.
This is dedicated (with permission) to the skilled and gifted photographer - Chase Gunnoe - who regularly posts and is on staff with RP. I believe he deserves a gallery showcasing his remarkable photos. This is for you Chase! (More great photos to come!)
