Emergency officials in Somerset County are advising the public to avoid the area after a CSX train and a tri-axle truck reportedly collided Monday afternoon in Friedens.
According to the county EMA director Joel Landis, drivers and residents are being asked to avoid Route 281 as the roadway is expected to be closed for an extended period of time.
Officials say the crash was reported, just before 3 p.m., near the intersection of Route 281 and Culligan Road, and multiple crews, including a hazmat unit, are on scene.
Landis adds that the train was reportedly hauling corn syrup, but the tanks are now empty, and there is no danger to the public.
911 officials say three people (2 people on the train plus the truck driver) are being transported to area hospitals for treatment of non-serious injuries.
According to the Friedens Fire Chief, cleanup of the scene is expected to take up to 24 hours as crews work to contain the fuel spilled during the incident.
Emergency officials note that there are several detours in place and motorists are again advised to avoid the area.