"The lawsuit could be costly to the railroad, seeking damages for a fiery disaster that prompted evacuations in East Palestine, killed fish and prompted a huge cleanup".

"The Justice Department filed a major civil suit Friday against Norfolk Southern Railway after one of its trains carrying toxic chemicals derailed near the Ohio town of East Palestine on Feb. 3 and burst into flames.

The federal lawsuit, which could impose heavy costs on the railroad, comes less than two months after the train operated by Norfolk Southern derailed in the eastern Ohio border town, forcing East Palestinians from their homes, prompting reports of nausea and rashes and killing thousands of fish.

“No community should have to go through what East Palestine residents have faced,” said EPA Administrator Michael Regan in a statement Friday. He added that the legal action would ensure the railroad “cleans up the mess they made and pays for the damage they have inflicted as we work to ensure this community can feel safe at home again.”"

Steven Mufson reports for the Washington Post March 31, 2023. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"DOJ Sues Norfolk Southern Over Ohio Train Derailment, Spill" (Bloomberg Environment) [3]