Ohio train derailment: Scammers target residents of East Palestine

EAST PALESTINE, Ohio – While the cleanup continues after the toxic A train derailment in Ohioresidents of eastern Palestine are now being warned about possible scammers.

“Local authorities issued an alert today about individuals going door-to-door in East Palestine posing as CDC and South Norfolk officials,” Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s office said in a statement. “Neither the CDC nor Norfolk Southern currently has personnel conducting door-to-door operations.”

Governor DeWine’s office offers the following tips to avoid being scammed:

• Check their identity: Ask for ID and check it before contacting anyone who comes to your home unannounced.
• Do not share personal information: Never give out personal information, such as a social security number or financial information.
• Report suspicious activity: If you suspect that someone is impersonating a CDC or Norfolk Southern employee, notify your local authorities immediately.
• Spread the word: Share this warning with your friends, family and neighbors so they can be aware of the potential threat and take the necessary precautions.

Editor’s note: The video in the player above was originally published in a previous story on March 10, 2023.

The East Palestine Police Department can be reached at 330-426-4341.

As for the cleanup effort, the Ohio EPA said Monday that approximately 6.06 million gallons of liquid sewage has been removed from East Palestine. With the fact that 3,080 tons of excavated soil have been removed, approximately 26,800 tons remain to be removed.

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