Evacuations ordered after freight train derails in south Chicago suburb

A Freight Train derailed in the south Chicago suburb of Matteson on Thursday, leading to the evacuation of some residents.

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the train derailment near Chicago occurred near Main and 217th streets in Matteson. According to reports, no injuries have been documented, but it's possible a chemical substance was expelled from the train cars during the wreck.

Authorities are inspecting each freight car for potential hazards, and no fire has been reported. Mandatory Evacuations Ordered have been issued for areas approximately one mile south and west, and a quarter-mile east of the derailment, according to the Sun-Times.

Elderly individuals and those with mobility limitations are advised to call 911 for assistance in evacuating the area. Residents should bring essential medications with them for a possible extended stay, Matteson spokesman Sean Howard told the Sun-Times.

Some Metra Electric service was disrupted by the derailment, but by 2 p.m., trains were allowed to resume normal service,  according to an alert on Metra's website.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced that they are aware of the incident but have not initiated an investigation. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) is collaborating with local, state, and federal partners regarding the train derailment and highlighted the prioritization of resident safety, according to the Sun-Times.

Canadian National Railway, the company in charge of the train, has not yet released a statement on the derailment.