The National Transportation Safety Board announced Tuesday it is launching a special investigation into Norfolk Southern’s corporate organization and safety culture.
The new probe follows a national outcry over a fiery derailment on Feb. 3 in East Palestine, Ohio, that released toxic chemicals into the air, soil and water, causing fear and uncertainty among residents in the surrounding area. That February incident was already under investigation by the NTSB, and investigators have already pinpointed overheated bearings as a cause.
Tuesday’s announcement puts the Atlanta-based railroad under even greater scrutiny just as Norfolk Southern’s CEO is set to testify this week before the U.S. Senate.
