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Train Wreck Dumps Coal Onto Interstate

By AP/KWMU

Benton, Ill. – A train derailment on an Interstate 57 overpass near Benton, Ill. Friday dumped tons of coal onto the highway and shut down I-57 in both directions.

Benton is about 100 miles from St. Louis.

Illinois Department of Transportation engineer Tom Zerrusen says the railroad trestle is structurally sound and the interstate is expected to reopen around midnight.

Until then, the accident is forcing motorists to detour between West Frankfort and Whittington.

Canadian National Railway spokesman Ian Thomson says 12 cars went off the track and eight of those fell onto the highway.

The 136-car coal train was heading from East St. Louis to Paducah, Kentucky.

Thomson says it isn't clear what caused the derailment.

Only one minor injury was reported.

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