Tragedy: Philadelphia Train Crash- 7 Confirmed Dead (Photos)

Seven carriages including the engine of the Amtrak train bound for New York went off the track on Tuesday evening.

Over 200 people have been treated in area hospitals, says Mayor of Philadelphia Michael Nutter.

Speed may have been a factor in the crash, several US media outlets have reported.

Investigators are searching the wreckage in order to confirm that all on board have been accounted for.

 Part of the US's most travelled stretch of passenger rail between Philadelphia and New York is closed as officials continue to try to determine the cause.

President Obama called the section of rail, "a way of life for many" and that he was "shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the derailment".

More than 240 people were on board Train 188, officials said.

The New York National Guard will travel to Philadelphia to assist in the response efforts, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced.

Read more: BBC