A freight train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, spewing dangerous chemicals into the community. Norfolk Southern settled class action claims for $600 million.
Tuesday's news release claimed the settlement "is another promise kept by Norfolk Southern to make it right for the people of East Palestine and the surrounding communities."
The sentencing document for James Crumbley stated that "his jail calls show a total lack of remorse" and that "he blames everyone but himself."
"The accord gives settlement class members finality and flexibility. Norfolk Southern said individuals and businesses can utilize settlement payments as they want to address derailment-related issues.
"This could include healthcare needs and medical monitoring, property restoration and diminution, and compensation for any net business loss," it said. "In addition, individuals within 10-miles of the derailment may, at their discretion, choose to receive additional compensation for any past, current, or future personal injury from the derailment."
Before 9 p.m. local time on Feb. 3, 2023, 38 freight train carriages derailed along Taggart Street. Vinyl chloride and butyl acrylate, which can cause respiratory irritation and cancer, found in the autos.
Some residents within a 1-mile radius had to flee. The rail company burned vinyl chloride, a dangerous gas, days after the spill and fire to reduce the chance of an explosion.
Class-action lawsuits followed quickly. Most residents sued for evacuation-related income loss and health issues. Norfolk Southern and the EPA said the town's water was safe to drink, but some residents told "NBC Nightly News" earlier this year that they use air purifiers everyday and only drink bottled water.
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