Newly released documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act reveal that the Federal Emergency Management Agency was aware of serious health risks following the February 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment and controlled burn in East Palestine, Ohio. 

According to a lawsuit by the Government Accountability Project against FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security, the agency anticipated long-term health effects. FEMA noted the possibility of “a cancer-cluster” in the area and referenced a need for a “tripwire to identify cancer clusters.” 

The documents align with earlier whistleblower disclosures by Dr. George Thompson and Stephen Petty, who raised concerns about toxic exposure and called for long-term medical monitoring. Internal communications also showed that a FEMA-appointed Federal Coordinator was advised not to engage directly with residents or attend a November 2023 community meeting. 

FEMA initially denied the FOIA request, prompting litigation. The records confirm the agency internally acknowledged risks from the derailment and vent-and-burn operation, while publicly facing criticism for limited response and transparency. 

The train derailment and subsequent burn released a toxic plume, with community members reporting ongoing health concerns in the two years since the incident. 

Posted: May 27, 2025
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner FOI Project, Brechner Freedom of Information Project, FOI, Government Transparency