Rail cars are attached by iron knuckles and a pressurized line for air brakes, he said. When rail cars become uncoupled, the air hose connection is broken as well and that brings the train to an immediate stop.
No one was hurt and there was no derailment involving the 76 cars and engine.
Eaton police Sgt. Eric Beegly said the stopped train blocked 13 of the city's 16 rail crossings.
Callers tell us the first problem occurred at the crossing on Baron Street and that the conductor said rail cars crashed into each other.
Beegly said the only crossings open at 4:15 p.m. are U.S. 35 West (Richmond Pike), State Route 122 South (South Franklin Street) and St. Claire Street.
A crew is on scene repairing the broken coupling and air brake line. Pidgeon said the crossings should be cleared by about 6 p.m.
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