Freight Train Carrying Fuel Derails and Catches Fire Near Arizona-New Mexico Border

On Friday, April 26, a freight train carrying fuel derailed and caught fire near the Arizona-New Mexico state line, resulting in the closure of an interstate highway that serves as a crucial trucking route. Initial reports indicated that the incident caused significant disruption in the area, prompting emergency responses from multiple agencies.

The train derailment, which occurred midday near Lupton, Arizona, led to the deployment of company personnel from BNSF Railway to the site for clearing the wreckage. Although no injuries were reported, nearby residences and a truck stop were evacuated as a precaution due to the thick smoke and potential hazards from the burning rail cars.

Impact on Transportation and Passenger Travel

The closure of Interstate 40 in both directions resulted in significant traffic diversions and delays, with some reports indicating a backlog of over 10 miles on the affected route. Additionally, Amtrak had to cancel certain passenger travel, including services between Los Angeles and Albuquerque, New Mexico.

New Mexico State Police and the Arizona Department of Public Safety announced the closure of Interstate 40 and provided diversions to alternative routes. Similarly, the New Mexico Department of Transportation issued warnings about extended highway closures and anticipated increases in traffic on other interstate highways, including I-25 and I-10.

The Arizona Corporation Commission, responsible for railroad safety oversight, disclosed that the derailment involved 10 rail cars, with two transporting liquid petroleum. Despite initial plans to dispatch a railroad inspector to the site, it was later determined that the incident occurred on the New Mexico side of the tracks, necessitating coordination between state authorities.