Train carrying crude burns in western Alabama

ALICEVILLE, Ala. - A train carrying crude oil caught fire and exploded in western Alabama, temporarily forcing one family to leave their home, authorities said today.

Three train cars exploded overnight near Aliceville and several others either derailed or sustained damage, said Yasamie August, a spokeswoman for the Alabama Emergency Management Agency. She had received reports from an emergency coordinator at the scene. No injuries were reported.

Firefighters were letting the blaze burn out since the damage was contained to a rural area.

One family was temporarily forced to leave their home, but they have since returned, August said.

"It was scary, especially (with) two boys in the house, two little kids," witness Heather Garner told WBMA-TV. "And I was sitting outside when one tank blew. And it looked like fire was just coming straight toward the house."

It was not immediately clear whether oil spilled during the incident. August said state environmental authorities have been alerted.

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