Fatalities Reported In Amtrak Train Crash Near Philadelphia

Authorities say an Amtrak train struck a piece of construction equipment just south of Philadelphia, and sources are reporting the crash led to at least two deaths.

Service on the Northeast Corridor between New York and Philadelphia has been suspended.

Sources tell CBS Philly that two Amtrak employees were killed in the crash and that at least 16 people were taken to local hospitals to be treated for injuries.

Amtrak said Train 89 was heading from New York to Savannah, Georgia, when it struck a backhoe that was on the track in Chester, about 15 miles outside of Philadelphia.

The impact derailed the lead engine of the train. About 341 passengers and seven crew members were on board.

Amtrak said initial reports are that some passengers were being treated for injuries.

Local emergency responders are on the scene and the crash is being investigated.

Last May, an Amtrak train derailed near Philadelphia, killing eight people. Officials are still trying to determine the exact cause of that crash.

Last month, another Amtrak train derailed in Kansas, although no one was killed in that crash.