Amtrak Train Derailment in Philadelphia Kills 7

An Amtrak train carrying 243 people derailed in Philadelphia Tuesday night, claiming the lives of at least seven passengers. At least 144 additional passengers were injured, while 8 remain in critical condition.

Train 188 was traveling from Washington D.C. to New York City when it derailed in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia around 9:30 p.m. on the 2000 block of Wheatsheaf lane. The tracks begin to curve in that area.

Five of the 243 passengers on board were Amtrak employees.

On Wednesday morning, Mayor Nutter announced that the investigation into the crash is ongoing. The Mayor added that the equivalent to an airplanes black box has been located, and was sent to the Amtrak information center in Delaware for analysis. Investigators are also hoping to review footage from a camera at the front of the train.

NTSB Board member Robert Sumwalt said Wednesday that seven NTSB investigators are on the ground investigating several factors including the track, signals, and train mechanics. They are expecting more investigators to arrive on scene from Washington D.C. throughout the morning.

Sumwalt also noted that there would be an organizational meeting Wednesday between NTSB, Amtrak, Philadelphia Fire Officials and Police.

Another press briefing is expected to be held Wednesday afternoon. The time has not yet been determined.

Mayor Nutter announced late Tuesday night that five people were killed immediately following the crash. Temple University Hospital confirmed the death of the sixth passenger early Wednesday morning.

Nutter added Tuesday night that several cars were turned over, including the engine.

The crash prompted a four alarm response from the Philadelphia Fire Department, including an arsenal of 120 firefighters, and 33 apparatuses.

Heavy equipment continues to arrive on scene Wednesday morning, while the National Transportation Safety Board expects to have full crews at the scene Wednesday to try to determine what happened.

If you have questions about their friends and family that may have been on board Train 188 you are asked to call the Amtrak hotline and give any possible information about those potential passengers: 800-523-9101.

The family assistance center is currently located at 3400 Frankford Avenue, but is expected to be moved following an announcement Wednesday afternoon.

Injured passengers were taken to a number of area hospitals including Jefferson, Temple, Hahnemann, and Aria Torresdale. Temple University Hospital's Dr. Herbert Cushing says most of the injured sustained fractures.

Governor Wolf released the statement, "My thoughts and prayers are with all of those impacted by tonight's train derailment. For those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the families of all involved, this situation is devastating. I want to sincerely thank our first responders for their brave and quick action. I am closely monitoring the situation and I am in contact with state and local authorities."

Northeast Corridor service between New York and Philadelphia is suspended.

SEPTA's Trenton and Chestnut Hill West Lines are suspended. It is anticipated that the Trenton Line will be suspended throughout the service day tomorrow and possible through the remainder of the work week. The cause of the derailment is under investigation.

This is a developing story, please stay with FOX 29 for updates. This Associated Press contributed to this report.