NTSB LAUNCHES GO TEAM TO INVESTIGATE AMTRAK DERAILMENT IN KANSAS

 The National Transportation Safety Board has launched a team of investigators to the site of this morning's derailment of Amtrak's Southwest Chief near Carbondale, Kansas.  The train derailed at approximately 2:05 a.m., Central Standard Time.

 Preliminary indications are that four passenger cars, three mail cars, and eight road railers (truck trailers mounted on railroad wheels) were derailed.  The four passenger cars are on their sides.  Initial reports indicate that there are no fatalities and about 31 injuries.  The four lead locomotives and two baggage cars did not derail.

 The team is led by Investigator-in-Charge Jay Kivowitz.  He is being joined by nine rail investigators and public affairs officer Terry Williams.  NTSB Member George Black is accompanying the team and will be the principal spokesman for the on-scene investigation.

 The team is setting up its headquarters at the Capital Plaza Hotel, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kansas, (785) 431-7200.  Press inquiries should be directed to Terry Williams at that phone number.  The team is expected to arrive at the scene at mid-day.

NTSB Press Contacts: Terry Williams, (785) 431-7200
    Ted Lopatkiewicz, (202) 314-6100