In Graniteville, South Carolina, a train collision took place when a Norfolk Southern freight train crashed into an idle train, resulting in the catastrophic release of an estimated 60 tons of chlorine gas. The accident occurred in the early morning hours, drastically affecting the small community of Graniteville. Emergency services quickly responded to the area, evacuating residents and attempting to mitigate the impact of the toxic gas leak. Chlorine gas is highly toxic and can cause severe health issues, prompting an urgent and extensive emergency response effort.

Local hospitals reported numerous cases of respiratory issues and other health effects due to exposure. The urgency of the situation demanded coordinated action between local authorities and federal agencies, highlighting the need for rapid emergency preparedness in communities near hazardous materials. Several people were treated for exposure, and air quality monitoring was instituted to assess the extent of the contamination.

The incident also triggered discussions about chemical transportation regulations and safety measures. Investigations ensued regarding the circumstances deemed responsible for the crash, including the train's speed, crew decisions, and the state of the equipment involved. The significant volume of chlorine released raised alarms about potential long-term environmental effects and the adequacy of current safety protocols in the rail transport industry.