Norfolk Southern CEO apologizes for East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment in Senate testimony

Norfolk Southern President and CEO Alan Shaw apologized before Congress Thursday for the Feb. 3 East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment. 

"I want to begin today by expressing how deeply sorry I am for the impact this derailment has had on the residents of East Palestine and the surrounding communities," Shaw told the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. 

"I am determined to make this right," Shaw continued. "Norfolk Southern will clean the site safely, thoroughly and with urgency. You have my personal commitment. Norfolk Southern will get the job done and help East Palestine thrive at the direction of and in collaboration with the U.S., EPA, state and local agencies."

Shaw said to consider the financial assistance from the railroad operator so far as just a "down payment."