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Schumer Calls For Investigation After Mineola Residents Complain Of Flying Debris From Freight Trains

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Loose debris apparently flying from uncovered freight trains is raising safety concerns on Long Island.

Sen. Charles Schumer is joining Mineola residents in calling for an investigation into the issue.

Schumer wants the Federal Railroad Administration to require freight trains traveling through densely populated areas to cover cars carrying loose debris.

1010 WINS' Mona Rivera reports

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"We're not talking about just tiny, little pieces," Schumer said. "Thankfully, there's thus far just been property damage and no one's been hurt but it will only be a matter of time."

Residents claim cars have been damaged by pieces of metal and concrete that apparently flew off freight cars.

"Children could be hit by these or residents could be hit by falling debris," resident Russ Sutherland said.

There also are concerns about loose freight train debris falling on and around Long Island Rail Road commuter tracks.

(TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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