Two years after the derailment, researchers are stepping in to track how low-level, long-term environmental exposures are affecting the health of East Palestine residents.

On Feb. 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed after a railcar's wheel bearing overheated, causing a fire. Three days later, officials conducted a "controlled release" of several tank cars that were filled with vinyl chloride, a toxic and flammable gas that can cause certain cancers, to prevent an explosion.

Every time Gregory Mascher hears a train whistle or one roaring through his small town, he said he is reminded of the fiery, toxic train derailment that happened two years ago.

EAST PALESTINE, Ohio — Two years after a Norfolk Southern train derailment spewed a toxic cloud that drove thousands from their homes, freight trains with the same chemicals central to that disaster roll through town — with few steps taken by lawmakers to prevent another disaster.

A new lawsuit has been filed alleging for the first time that the February 2023 East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment resulted in deaths, according to The Associated Press.

Vinyl chloride is still being detected in East Palestine, and residents have reported rashes and upper respiratory issues.

A new lawsuit alleges at least seven people have died from the aftermath of the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine.

As residents continue to wait for action in Washington D.C., hundreds of East Palestine, Ohio residents are gearing up for a new court battle. A new lawsuit claims that Norfolk Southern and agencies at all levels of government failed the communities in Ohio and Pennsylvania.

More than 700 current and former East Palestine residents have filed a new lawsuit two years after the derailment sent toxic chemicals into the air, water, and soil. KDKA's Jennifer Borrasso spoke with a few of those residents.