A train derailment at the Arizona-New Mexico state line is reportedly under investigation. The freight train was carrying propane and gasoline, according to The Arizona Department of Transportation.
The derailment, which happened Friday, is still causing major headaches for travelers. At one point, both directions of Interstate 40 near Chambers, Arizona were shut down. But now just the eastbound lanes remain closed. Drivers are currently being rerouted onto US 191 northbound.
The Arizona Corporation Commission posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, and said it was a BNSF train that derailed near Lupton, Arizona.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation posted on Facebook stating that the derailment in New Mexico happened near Gallup.
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Officials, Arizona Governor respond to train derailment
The Apache County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook saying the derailment was “being treated as a hazardous materials incident” which lead to evacuation orders for nearby areas.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs posted Saturday on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating that she is concerned about the derailment and will be “monitoring the situation closely”.
Investigation reportedly underway, no injuries
According to reports by multiple news outlets, the National Transportation Board (NTSB) and the Federal Road Administration (FRA) are currently investigating to figure out what lead to the train derailment.
Thankfully, there have been no injuries reported.
Navajo Nation impacted by train derailment
The Navajo Nation were a part of the evacuation orders issued because they were located within a two mile radius of where the derailment occurred. Additionally, the Navajo Nation police were one of the many agencies that responded to the incident.
The Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren issued a statement saying in part “Our deepest concern is for the safety and well-being of our citizens and those directly affected by this incident.” The president also went on to say that they would cooperate with authorities and take any necessary precautions.
