Dr. Joyce Sends Letters Requesting Answers Following Multiple Train Derailments in Blair County  

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Joyce sent letters to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Norfolk Southern seeking answers after at least four train derailments occurred in Blair County since February of this year. The most recent incident occurred on October 23, 2026, in Altoona, where at least 11 train cars derailed including cars carrying hazardous materials. 

Specifically, the letters request answers on the findings of completed investigations, what response protocols were carried out, what federal support is necessary to prevent future derailments, and what steps are being taken to ensure the safety of the community and personnel.

“As the grandson of two railroad workers, rail safety is part of my heritage, and now it’s part of my responsibility in Congress to get to the bottom of these glaring failures,”  said Congressman John Joyce, M.D.  “Our communities deserve answers, and the safety of residents and passengers must never be compromised. This oversight effort is an important step toward holding Norfolk Southern accountable for its lack of response to the increase in derailments and ensuring that Norfolk Southern steps up and meets the highest standards of safety for the community.” 

Congressman John Joyce is a cosponsor of the Railway Safety Act of 2026, a bipartisan piece of legislation that would update safety regulations for freight cars and require improved coordination and support for local first responders. 

Within the last week, Congressman John Joyce addressed these concerns with the Logan Township United Fire Department Chief Rusty Shoenfelt and 40 fire crew members who serve the area around the Horseshoe Curve.

Read the letter to the FRA here. 

Read the letter to Norfolk Southern here.