National Transportation Safety Board Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy acknowledged Wednesday that a controlled incineration at the site of the train derailment that devastated the East Palestine town was not necessary.

On February 3, 2023, a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed near East Palestine, Ohio, prompting evacuations and shelter-in-place orders as authorities tried to deal with the chemical release. Authorities warned on February 6 of the possibility of a “catastrophic explosion” before carrying out a controlled incineration. (Related article: 'Too little, too late': East Palestinian residents ignore Biden's response to harmful derailment, protests ahead of visit)

“These measurements indicate an initial temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit at 4:00 p.m. on February 5th, eventually dropping to 126 degrees Fahrenheit at 9:30 a.m. on February 6th, at which point it stabilized. Is it true that you showed that?'' Republican Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio asked Homendy during his speech. hearing According to a report by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. release From his office.

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“That's right, Senator. It was stable long before the venting and burning,” Homendy replied. “Hours ago.”

Residents testified that a strange odor pervaded the town after the derailment and controlled fire. Some people say the water in the area is undrinkable, even though Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine drank a glass of water on Feb. 22, 2023.

Vance continued his questioning, pointing out that the company transporting the toxic chemicals said conditions at the site were not conducive to an explosion.

“I want to be clear here: My question is not a criticism of the incident commander or the governor. I think the provision has taken a huge toll on the community on the ground,” Vance said. “This is an extraordinary job by your team, but this is a really, really troubling set of circumstances.”

“It is very likely that this town was poisoned to facilitate the rapid transit of cargo. Or, at the very least, it may have been poisoned for reasons that cannot be determined,” Vance continued. “That should be a real concern to everyone on this committee.”

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