Multiple People Killed In Amtrak Train Derailment In Rural MO: Report

MENDON, MO — Multiple people were killed and dozens injured when an Amtrak train traveling from Los Angeles to Chicago derailed in rural Missouri on Monday, according to a CNN report citing an official with the Chariton County Ambulance Service.

The derailment happened just after 1:40 p.m. CT, an Amtrak spokesperson confirmed to Patch. Social media posts from the scene show several rail cars on their sides. The Missouri State Highway Patrol later confirmed that eight cars derailed in the accident.

About 243 passengers were on board. Mendon is about 100 miles northeast of Kansas City.

Eric McKenzie, the superintendent of Chariton County Ambulance Service, told CNN there were multiple fatalities and at least 50 people were injured.

At least three passengers were taken from the scene to University Hospital in Columbia, hospital spokesman Eric Maze told The Associated Press. He did not have information on their conditions.

Local authorities are assisting at the site of the derailment. Amtrak has also deployed crews to help, according to the company's statement.

Sam Graves, who represents Missouri's 6th Congressional District, said in a tweet that he's closely monitoring the situation.

"Emergency personnel are working diligently on the scene and I am praying for all involved," Graves tweeted.

People who need immediate assistance with information about the train can call or text Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.