Exclusive | Norfolk Southern CEO Expected to Leave Railroad Amid Board Probe

Current CEO Alan Shaw likely to step down after Jan. 31

Norfolk Southern CEO Alan Shaw is expected to step down from his position at the end of January amid an ongoing board probe into the company's handling of the Feb. 3 toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

According to the source, the decision was made following a contentious meeting where the board lost confidence in Shaw's leadership. The meeting was held after the release of a preliminary report by a consulting firm hired by Norfolk Southern, which found the company had made several errors leading up to the derailment.

The news comes as Norfolk Southern faces intense scrutiny over its handling of the derailment, which released toxic chemicals into the environment and forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes.

The investigation still ongoing

The board is still investigating the derailment, and it is unclear what the final report will conclude. However, the preliminary report found that the company had failed to properly maintain its tracks and had ignored warnings about the dangers of the train's cargo.

The derailment has had a devastating impact on the community of East Palestine, and residents are still struggling to recover. The company has been criticized for its slow response to the disaster and for its lack of communication with residents.

Shaw's departure is seen as a sign that the board is taking the investigation seriously and is committed to making changes to improve the company's safety record.

Norfolk Southern did not immediately respond to a request for comment.