Dollywood releases cause of train derailment that forced passenger evacuation

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT/Gray News) – Engineers are working to repair the Dollywood Express after it derailed at the beginning of October.

According to spokesperson Wes Ramey, a switch track on the train’s path had a mechanical issue on Oct. 1, which caused the derailment.

All passengers had to be evacuated from the cars, but no one was hurt.

Now, a specialized part is being manufactured for the track.

“A specialized replacement for the switch track will be manufactured, installed and tested before the train returns to service,” Ramey said, adding that it’s unclear when the train will be back in service.

The Dollywood Express is a 110-ton coal-fired steam engine that takes guests on a five-mile trip around the park and through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.

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