Operator Error Blamed for New York Freight Train Crash

CSX Corp. says the derailment of two of its freight trains in the Mohawk Valley earlier this summer was caused by operator error.

The Daily Gazette of Schenectady reports that CSX recently posted its internal investigation into the June 27 derailment to the Federal Railroad Administration website. The company’s report says the accident was caused when the eastbound train went through a trackside red light as a westbound train was crossing from one track to another.

The two trains side-swiped one another, dozens of cars into a ditch along Route 5 in Fonda, 35 miles west of Albany. Some of the derailed cars landed on the road, causing extensive damage. A section of the road didn’t reopen until Tuesday.

No serious injuries were reported.

Federal officials say their investigation into the accident continues.