In April, accidental brush fires that spread across Rockland County were traced back to a CSX train, according to the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office.
The fires, which caused widespread damage and posed a threat to nearby homes and communities, were determined to have originated from sparks emitted by the passing train.
The Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation and found that the sparks ignited dry vegetation alongside the tracks, resulting in the rapid spread of the fires.
The Rockland County Sheriff’s Office also emphasized the importance of prompt reporting of any suspicious or potentially dangerous activities near railroad tracks to prevent potential disasters.