Another notable development has happened in the ongoing story of the derailment of Northeast Regional Train 188, as Amtrak CEO Joseph Boardman issued an official statement on the company's blog, claiming full responsibility and assuring every person who was affected that the company will do what it can to help.
The CEO's statement came just as investigators are starting to examine the reasons behind the train's acceleration while approaching the fateful curve. In the minute leading up to the crash, the train increased its speed from 70 mph to more than 100 mph, according to the Associated Press. The maximum speed of the train approaching such a curve is supposed to be just 50 mph.
Boardman has referred to the deadly derailment as a terrible tragedy. Through a blog post in the Amtrak official website, he states that Amtrak will be taking full responsibility for the incident.
"With truly heavy hearts, we mourn those who died. Their loss leaves holes in the lives of their families and communities. On behalf of the entire Amtrak family, I offer our sincere sympathies and prayers for them and their loved ones," he wrote.
"Amtrak takes full responsibility and deeply apologizes for our role in this tragic event," he added.
The Amtrak CEO also states that the company will try its best to aid all those who affected in any way that the company is able to do.
"We recognize that for everyone onboard the train, including those who suffered injuries, the healing process may be long. Within 24 hours of the incident, Amtrak set up a Family Assistance Center in Philadelphia to work closely with the family of passengers and crew on the train," he wrote.
"We are also working with the individuals and families affected by this event to help them with transportation, lodging, and of course, medical bills and funeral expenses," he added.
Reports have stated that all 243 people on the train have been accounted for, according to CNN. Of the 243, eight have died and 6 remain in critical condition. More than 200 of the passengers have suffered injuries.
