WASHINGTON: At least five people were killed and dozens injured after a train derailed and overturned in Philadelphia late Tuesday.Emergency personnel said six of the injured were in critical condition and 53 others were less critically hurt amid chaotic scenes after at least seven train cars, including the engine car, were crushed, turned over on their side or left upside down.

“It is an absolute disastrous mess. I have never seen anything like this in my life and most personnel will say that, as well,” Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter told reporters.

But Nutter warned that the casualty and injury estimates were only preliminary, hinting at the potential for a higher toll.

Hydraulic tools had to be used to remove passengers from some of the most badly damaged train cars, emergency personnel said.