Local News
Austin Bates killed in Blount County single-vehicle crash
BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities have confirmed that a 35-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a single-vehicle crash Tuesday evening in Blount County.
Alabama State Troopers on Wednesday identified the victim as Austin L. Bates, a resident of Oneonta.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 6:42 p.m. Tuesday on Blount County Road 20 near Rogers Road, about five miles east of Oneonta.
According to Trooper Sgt. Reginal King, preliminary reports indicate that Bates was operating a 1947 Indian Chief motorcycle when he veered off the roadway and struck a tree.
Despite immediate emergency response efforts, Bates was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not released further details about what may have led to the crash.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate the incident.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.