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Big Boy Train Event Sparks Mass Casualty Incident
4 Jul
Summary
- Over 100 people received medical care for heat-related illnesses.
- Thirty-five individuals were hospitalized for evaluation and care.
- A mass casualty incident was declared due to extreme heat.
A "mass casualty incident" was declared on Thursday at the Berks County stop for Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014 locomotive's nationwide tour. The event, held at the Reading & Blue Mountain Railroad Outer Station in Reading, Pennsylvania, drew thousands of spectators eager to see the historic train. However, attendees faced extreme temperatures reaching 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
More than 100 individuals received on-site medical treatment for heat-related illnesses, and 35 were transported to local hospitals for further evaluation and care. The "mass casualty incident" designation was implemented to ensure sufficient emergency resources were available. One person experienced cardiac arrest but was successfully resuscitated before hospitalization.
Muhlenberg Township Police Chief Randall Hoover commended the effective cooperation among local, county, and regional public safety partners during the large-scale emergency. An incident review process is currently underway. Heat-related illnesses can include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps, according to the CDC. Residents are urged to plan for staying cool and hydrated during the heatwave. The Big Boy locomotive's tour will continue through Pennsylvania before proceeding to other states, including Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.
