Authorities told nearby residents to shelter in place while emergency crews worked to determine what the derailed freight cars were carrying.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

Emergency crews rushed to Bensalem, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday afternoon after a freight train derailment prompted a hazmat response and a shelter-in-place warning for nearby residents.

Bensalem police, fire, EMS and hazardous materials teams were dispatched to the area between Street Road and Neshaminy Falls Train Station after authorities received reports that five to 10 freight cars had derailed, according to the Bensalem Township Police Department.

Officials said crews were working to determine what materials were inside the train cars.

No immediate details were released on whether anyone was injured or whether any hazardous substances had spilled.

Authorities urged the public to avoid the area while first responders assessed the scene.

“Residents in the area are urged to stay away and shelter in place until we have an update,” the Bensalem Township Police Department said.

The derailment response remained active Tuesday afternoon as emergency officials evaluated the train cars, secured the surrounding area and worked to determine whether there was any danger to nearby residents.