‘Mass casualty incident’ declared at Big Boy train stop after dozens treated for heat illnesses in Pennsylvania

READING, Pa. (WHTM) – A “mass casualty incident” was declared at the Berks County stop in Pennsylvania for the Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 locomotive‘s nationwide tour.

The Muhlenberg Township Police Department says thousands of spectators waited in 106-degree weather for the train at the Reading & Blue Mountain Railroad Outer Station in Reading on Thursday.

Beginning shortly before the train’s arrival and throughout the event, more than 100 individuals received medical treatment on scene, and 35 people were taken to the hospital for evaluation and care for heat-related illnesses.

One person suffered cardiac arrest and was successfully resuscitated before being transported.

The “mass casualty incident” declaration was issued to facilitate the deployment of additional emergency resources.

“The coordinated response by local, county, and regional public safety partners demonstrated the effectiveness of mutual aid cooperation and the commitment of emergency responders to protecting the public during a large-scale emergency incident,” Muhlenberg Township Police Chief Randall Hoover said in a statement Thursday evening.

An incident review process is being conducted, according to Hoover.

The Centers for Disease Control says heat-related illnesses may include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps, heat rash, heat syncope, and rhabdomyolysis. During the heat wave, residents are being encouraged to make a plan to stay cool and hydrated throughout the day.

As for the train, following several more days in Pennsylvania, the highly anticipated nationwide whistle-stop tour will continue with stops in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming, where the journey began in Cheyenne.

You can track the trip live on Union Pacific’s website.

Those planning to visit the train are being reminded by Union Pacific to stay at least 25 feet from all tracks and not trespass on private property.

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