On Friday afternoon, a train derailment in New Mexico resulted in the derailment of thirty-five rail cars, leading to evacuations and the closure of a 50-mile stretch of Interstate 40. The incident occurred near the state line, prompting a swift response from McKinley County Fire & Rescue.
Six of the derailed train cars were carrying propane, as reported by BNSF Railway. Evacuation orders were issued for residents within a two-mile radius of the derailment and fire along the New Mexico state line with Arizona.
Interstate 40 remains closed in both directions, with traffic being rerouted. New Mexico State Police indicated that there is currently no projected timeline for the reopening of the interstate.
A team of National Transportation Safety Board investigators is set to arrive at the scene to document the incident and examine the train and equipment involved in the derailment. BNSF Railway is conducting air monitoring and fire suppression assessments at the site.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the derailment. BNSF Railway is working to assist residents affected by the evacuations by providing necessary lodging and accommodations.
In a statement, BNSF Railway expressed its commitment to working with local public safety agencies in a Unified Command structure to ensure the safety and well-being of the community throughout the incident.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg acknowledged the derailment on social media, emphasizing the coordination efforts across state, Tribal, and local agencies to maintain safety in the region. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs also expressed concern about the incident and pledged to deploy resources to support community safety.
