Toledo, Ohio - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement after her briefing from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Director Jennifer Homendy regarding this morning's fatal Ohio turnpike collisions and hazmat release. Chair Homendy will represent the agency on scene accompanied by NTSB Member Inman. Investigators are expected to arrive later this evening. Congresswoman Kaptur and her office remain in close contact with local, state, and government officials.

"My heart goes out to so many families affected by the loss of life in the tragic turnpike accident that took place today on I-80 in Swanton. Since early this morning my staff and I have been following these events closely, and have been in touch with local law enforcement agencies and government at the local, state, and federal level responding to this collision," said Congresswoman Kaptur (OH-09). "We remain always grateful to our first-responders who did what could be done, at risk to their own health, to contain each individual incident and who worked to ensure the safety of the general public today. Several have suffered injury themselves and we pray for their return to good health in the coming days.

"I have spoken with NTSB Director Homendy and am thankful that she and investigators from her agency will survey the scene in person this evening. As a state that saw the Norfolk Southern Train Derailment last year, I appreciate that all proper precautions and investigation are taking place with this incident. I will continue to keep those impacted across our region of Northwest Ohio up to date as the investigation progresses and more facts come to light."

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