- The Norfolk Southern freight train transporting toxic chemicals when it derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, earlier this month had already broken down once on its route — as workers express concerns about the train’s size.
- The train broke down at least once between when it departed from Madison, Illinois, on Feb. 1 and when it derailed on Feb. 3, employees familiar with the matter told CBS News.
- Employees say the train’s massive length and weight likely contributed to its initial breakdown and derailment.
- The train totaled 151 cars — equating to about 9,300 feet in length — and weighed 18,000 tons, which is much larger than employees said was safe.
