Parson speaks at Mendon four months after Amtrak derailment

MENDON, Mo. (KMIZ)

Gov. Mike Parson went to the Northwestern School District in Mendon on Thursday to thank the residents for assisting in recovery efforts an Amtrak train derailed there four months ago.

Four people were killed in the train derailment -- three were passengers on the train and one was a truck driver the train hit. The train was traveling from Los Angeles to Chicago with 270 passengers and 12 crew, at the time of the derailment.

"I understand the mentality of a small town," Parson said. "I hope all you students in this crowd see how your town reacted, and realize if you ever need anything there are people here to help you."

This town was rocked by the June 27 incident, but banded together to help those involved in the wreck.

First responders from several local and state agencies, students from kindergarten to seniors in high school and people of the town were in attendance to hear the Parson's address.

"The way everyone stepped up brings me pride," Parson said. "To see and hear that people from all over the surrounding area were here to help is a true blessing."

The derailment caused roughly $4 million damages, with seven of the passenger railcars tipped over onto their sides.