More than 100 people treated for heat illness after 'Big Boy' train delays leave crowds stranded
WFMZ.com • • nation
Key Points:
- Over 100 people required medical treatment for heat-related illnesses while waiting to see Union Pacific's Big Boy locomotive in Berks County, with around 45 hospitalized and others treated on scene.
- The train arrived more than an hour late, causing crowds to endure extreme heat for extended periods, leading to multiple simultaneous medical emergencies, including a cardiac arrest.
- EMS crews from four counties, along with at least 10 local fire departments and additional support from Tower Health, Pennsylvania State Police, and a helicopter, responded to the high volume of medical calls.
- First responders faced challenges due to the overwhelming number of heat-related injuries and limited ambulance availability, with many people self-treating on site.
- The Big Boy locomotive's arrival near 2:30 p.m. generated excitement among attendees, and the train is en route to Philadelphia to celebrate America's 250th birthday.
