Catholic Bishop David Bonnar Statement on Fire in Ohio which Released Hazardous Smoke into the Area

In Ohio, USA, 50 train cars, including 10 carrying hazardous materials, derailed in a fiery crash February 3rd, in East Palestine, according to rail operator Norfolk Southern and the National Transportation Safety Board. Days after crews released and burned toxic chemicals transported by a wrecked train in Ohio, residents remain concerned about the toxic substances that could be lingering in their evacuated neighborhoods.  Vinyl chloride was slowly released into the air Monday from five of those cars before crews ignited it to get rid of the highly flammable, toxic chemicals in a controlled environment, creating a dangerous smoke. Residents in the immediate area there and nearby in Pennsylvania were evacuated beforehand because of health risks from the fumes. (Edited from PBS)

Also: https://epaosc.org/sites/15933/files/Norfolk%20Southern%20East%20Palestine%20Train%20Derailment%20General%20Notice%20Letter%202.10.2023.pdf

 Bishop Bonnar Statement after Train Derailment Fire in East Palestine

PRESS RELEASE - February 5, 2023

The Most Rev. David. J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, makes the following statement after the train derailment fire in East Palestine, Ohio: “The prayers of the Diocese of Youngstown are with all those affected and displaced by the train derailment in East Palestine, Columbiana County. We acknowledge with gratitude the heroic efforts of the first responders and the agencies that have assisted in this difficult situation. The evacuation zone includes the territory of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish whose feast we celebrate on February 11th. Given the magnitude of this event, it is miraculous that there were no fatalities or injuries. I cannot help but think that the Blessed Mother was watching over this community. I ask for continued prayers for the health and safety of all involved.”

In accordance with the Village of East Palestine’s regulation concerning evacuation orders, Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in East Palestine was canceled for Sunday, February 5. Liturgies continue to be celebrated at Saint Jude Parish in Columbiana this weekend.

Sources: https://doy.org/east-palestine-fire-2023/

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/residents-concerned-about-toxic-gases-from-ohio-train-derailment