Residents Return Home After Toxic Styrene Leak in Ohio Railyard

Officials continue investigation and monitoring as questions about safety and environmental impact remain.

A railcar in Whitewater Township began leaking styrene, a toxic and flammable chemical, prompting an evacuation of approximately 210 homes.
The leak was caused by a chemical reaction that heated the styrene into a gaseous state, leading to the release through the railcar's pressure valve.
Emergency responders worked through the night to cool the railcar and stop the leak, eventually stabilizing the situation by Wednesday morning.
Air and water quality tests by the U.S. EPA and Hamilton County Public Health found no ongoing contamination, allowing residents to return home by Wednesday evening.
The Federal Railroad Administration is investigating the cause of the leak, while residents express concerns about potential health effects and environmental impact.