This photo shows NS No. 4001, a DC-to-AC conversion unit leading NS train No. 218 through Prichard, W.Va., last August. No. 4001 was severely damaged in a coal train derailment in Pennsylvania on Friday. It is one of only two blue-and-grey locomotives painted by NS.
Chase Gunnoe
MATTAWANA, Pa. — Norfolk Southern is still investigating the cause of a coal train derailment near control point McVey on the railroad’s Pittsburgh line in Mattwana on Friday.
On Friday afternoon, NS coal train No. 593 derailed two locomotives and more than 20 cars near a field in Mattawana, about 60 miles east of Altoona, Pa. The train crew suffered minor injuries.
The incident involved NS AC44C6M No. 4001, one of the first two DC to AC locomotive conversion rebuilds led by NS’ in-house shop crews. The locomotive, known for its blue-and-grey paint scheme was rebuilt from NS No. 8879. It is one of two locomotives displaying the unique paint scheme.
Rail service resumed on the former Pennsylvania Railroad mainline Sunday morning.
Trains News Wire has reached out to Norfolk Southern for comment on what caused the derailment.
There seems to be an aura of mishaps around these units. One engine caught fire south of Pittsburgh a few months back, and now 4001 is creating expensive furrows. Interesting, to say the least.
I’ve heard it was a kink in the track.
First reports indicate a heat kink.