Two Dead, Three Injured in Union Pacific Train Derailment Following Collision with Tractor-Trailer – One America News Network
OAN Staff Abril Elfi
10:26 AM – Saturday, December 21, 2024
Tragedy struck in Pecos, Texas, as two individuals lost their lives and three others sustained injuries when a freight train collided with a tractor trailer, subsequently derailing.
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On Thursday, authorities reported that a train had derailed following a collision at a rail crossing, resulting in the deaths of two Union Pacific workers and injuries to three others.
“This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by railroad workers each day, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced safety measures throughout the industry,” stated the union.
Officials clarified that, despite the presence of hazardous materials on the train, none were released during the incident, and the leaked diesel fuel had been contained.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced on Thursday night that they dispatched a team to probe the derailment and have yet to ascertain the cause of the collision.
“Railroad workers perform essential tasks at considerable personal risk. As we reflect on this loss, we reaffirm our dedication to advancing stronger safety measures to better protect those working near the tracks,” they remarked.
Emergency Services Chief for Reeves County, Ronald Lee, indicated that the injured individuals were located within the Chamber of Commerce building, which was struck during the incident.
Lee also noted that the damage to the building was “substantial enough” and advised against entering until it has been thoroughly inspected.
In a statement, Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) expressed that his team is actively monitoring the derailment situation and exploring preventive measures for such incidents.
“My state team and I are closely following the updates surrounding the train derailment in Pecos, Texas. We are collaborating with the NTSB and local law enforcement to examine how this tragic incident transpired and how we can avoid similar occurrences in the future,” Cruz posted on X.
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