May 13, 2015

Watson Coleman Statement on Tuesday Amtrak Derailment

For Immediate Release

Washington, DC (May 13, 2015) ― Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement after an Amtrak train headed from Washington to New York City derailed in Philadelphia, killing six passengers and injuring 146 others:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of those who lost loved ones in this tragic accident, as well as those injured as a result of last night’s derailment. Our first priority must be ensuring that each of the 238 passengers onboard are accounted for, and from there we must move quickly to understand exactly what caused this incident. I have reached out to Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx, as well as Amtrak Board Chairman Tony Coscia, and I look forward to a speedy resolution.

“Thousands of my constituents and many of the businesses in my district rely on Amtrak travel along the affected route   ― a route I frequently take to and from Washington. Each time we step on board, we expect a safe and dependable trip. While we don’t yet know what caused the train to derail, catastrophes like this one are a stark reminder of our reliance on aging, and often entirely outdated infrastructure.

“I pray for the speedy recoveries of those injured, and as we consider next steps I hope that Congress will heed the inherent warning of this tragedy. It’s well past time to invest in and renew our nation’s infrastructure.”

12th District constituents with questions or concerns should contact Rep. Watson Coleman’s Ewing, New Jersey office at (609) 883-0026.