An Amtrak train derailed over an overpass in Washington State, with authorities reporting “injuries and casualties” at the scene.
Footage from witnesses shows one of the train’s carriage dangling over the busy Interstate 5 near the city of Tacoma.
Cars can be seen queuing ahead of the overpass as traffic continues to flow in the opposite carriageway.
Authorities have reported fatalities and people are trapped onboard the Amtrak train, part of which is hanging from a bridge over Interstate 5 (I-5), near Dupont.
The I-5 is closed in both directions and authorities are urging drivers to avoid the area.
The crash occurred at around 7.50am local time this morning.
An Amtrak spokesperson said:”Amtrak is aware of an incident with Train 501, Cascades service from Seattle to Portland. Emergency services are on the scene and Amtrak management is responding.”
Several cars were hit by the train as it plummeted on to the road, but remarkably no motorists were killed.
Pierce County Sheriff’s office confirmed there have been “multiple fatalities” on the train.
At least three people have been killed in the crash, according to the Seattle Times, and authorities have reported people are trapped onboard the Amtrak train, part of which is hanging from a bridge over Interstate 5 (I-5), near DuPont.
And least 77 people have been rushed to hospitals following the crash.
One of the 78 passengers who was onboard the southbound Amtrak service when it derailed said at least seven cars left the track.
He told local media said terrified passengers were forced to kick out windows to get out when the train’s emergency doors failed to open.