Erin Brockovich, a well-known consumer advocate, is investigating a train derailment and fire in East Palestine, Ohio.
“I’m trying to gather information on this very serious situation in Ohio involving a train derailment with hazardous chemicals,” Brockovich wrote on Twitter over the past weekend. “What I will say is this. Trust your eyes, ears and nose and get the hell out of there if your senses are telling you too.”
The train was carrying hazardous chemicals, including vinyl chloride, and there have been reports of animal deaths and respiratory problems among locals. Brockovich has called on the federal government to be more transparent and to take action to address the situation.
“The Biden administration needs to get more involved in this #PalestineOhio train derailment now. We are counting on you to break the chain of administration after administration to turn a blind eye. STEP UP NOW,” Brockovich wrote.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is monitoring the air quality and investigating the incident. The EPA has confirmed that the train was also carrying other chemicals such as glycol monobutyl ether and ethylhexyl acrylate. Brockovich is advising residents to trust their senses and leave the area if they feel unsafe.
