2 people dead after Amtrak train derails in Chester, 35 others injured

CHESTER, Pa. (AP) - 2 people have died as a result of an Amtrak derailment in Delaware County. They were not train passengers.

Authorities say an Amtrak train struck a backhoe on an adjacent track just south of Philadelphia. 35 passengers were transported to area hospitals.

Service on the Northeast Corridor between Philadelphia and Wilmington has been restored with limited service.

Amtrak said Train 89 was heading from New York to Savannah, Georgia, when it struck a backhoe that was on the track in Chester, about 15 miles outside of Philadelphia.

The impact derailed the lead engine of the train. About 341 passengers and seven crew members were on board.

Amtrak said initial reports are that approximately 35 passengers were being treated for injuries and were transported to area hospitals, none with life-threatening injuries.

Local emergency responders are on the scene and the crash is being investigated.

According to sources, one NTSB representative arrived on the scene of the crash, additional investigators are expected to arrive.

The engine of the Amtrak train is off the tracks with a smashed windshield.