'Multiple' fatalities as Amtrak train derails, dangles over highway in Washington state

DUPONT, Wash. — An Amtrak train on its inaugural run derailed south of Seattle on Monday, causing multiple deaths and injuries as rail cars plunged off a bridge over a traffic-clogged interstate, authorities said.

AT least five vehicles on I-5 were struck by derailed train cars tumbling down from the tracks above, Pierce County Sheriff's Department spokesman Ed Troyer said.

"We have multiple fatals on the train, no fatals on the roadway," Troyer said. He said the number of fatalities on the southbound train had not been determined. The Associated Press, citing a federal officials briefed on the investigation, said at least six people had died.

Amtrak Train 501 left Seattle at 6 a.m. local time as a new and controversial, high-speed service to Portland designed to avoid sharp curves, freight traffic and other obstacles that could slow the trip. Amtrak tracking data indicate the train was traveling at about 81 mph at the time of the wreck.

The state Transportation Department said federal funds were used to upgrade the tracks for passenger train use and that the Federal Railroad Administration had monitored the work.

"Today was the first day of public use of the tracks after weeks of inspection and testing," the department said in a statement.

Anthony Raimondi, a retired Amtrak employee, was riding in business class and suffered a bruised leg. He said the train rounded a curve when it began to wobble. Then it fell on its side.

"It just seemed to be going around the corner very fast and tipping over," he said.

The lights went out and another passenger kicked out a window. He said most people in his car weren't hurt.

"I feel very lucky," he said.