Photos show the moment an Amtrak train in Washington derailed and fell onto a highway

AP via Washington State Patrol

This photo provided by Washington State Patrol shows an Amtrak train that derailed south of Seattle on Monday, Dec. 18, 2017.

• An Amtrak train derailed off its tracks and was left dangling over a major highway in Washington state.
• Photos posted online depict the severity of the accident.
• There were approximately 83 people on board when the train crashed.
• Law enforcement officials have confirmed there were casualties, and media reports indicate that several people died, though there has been no official confirmation. 

An Amtrak train derailed off the tracks and was left dangling over a major highway in Washington state, and photos posted online by social media users and news networks depict the severity of the accident.

There were approximately 83 people on board: 78 passengers and five crew members, according to Amtrak.

The train was traveling from Seattle to Portland and law enforcement officials said there were injuries. Reuters reported that several people died, though the exact casualty count is unclear. Seventy-seven people were reportedly taken to the hospital.

Monday was the first day that Amtrak scheduled this route for a 6 a.m. departure on its Amtrak Cascades line because of a rerouting project.

Amtrak said those who have been unable to contact friends or family on or near the train can call 800-523-9101.