In May 2001, a CSX EMD SD40-2 locomotive lost its engineer and became an unintentional runaway train. While the engineer was setting a yard switch in Walbridge, Ohio, he failed to reboard the locomotive, which subsequently began its journey without any driver guiding it. What followed was a remarkable incident in which the train, carrying 47 freight cars—including a number of tank cars filled with flammable chemicals—traveled autonomously for a distance of 66 miles (106 km), sparking concerns over safety and operational protocols within the rail industry. The locomotive sped through various stretches of rail, raising alarms at several points and drawing responses from rail emergency personnel and local law enforcement as it headed towards populated areas.

The runaway train was eventually brought to a stop near Kenton, Ohio. The circumstances surrounding this incident prompted scrutiny into the safety measures in place for train operations, especially when involving hazardous materials. The event underscored the need for stringent protocols concerning engineer accountability and the locking systems for trains when not fully attended. This incident received ample media coverage and later inspired the 2010 action film "Unstoppable," directed by Tony Scott, which fictionalized a similar scenario of a runaway train that posed significant danger to the public.

The successful halt of the runaway train showcased the effectiveness of contingency planning by railroad companies, as protocols were established to mitigate such risks in the future. This incident not only raised questions about human error in train operations but also initiated discussions about technological advancements and safety measures needed in the industry. It served as a stark reminder of the responsibilities inherent in handling transportation systems that carry dangerous goods and emphasized the importance of constant vigilance in operational practices.