A tragic train derailment in Pecos City, Texas, on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of two Union Pacific employees and left three others injured. The collision, which occurred around 5:45 p.m. near Oak Street and Dot Stafford Street, involved a train and a tractor-trailer at a crossing, approximately 430 miles west of Dallas.
The fatalities were identified as Clay Burt, a locomotive engineer, and Phillip Araujo, a conductor. Both were experienced Union Pacific employees who lost their lives in the line of duty. City Manager Charles Lino confirmed that the collision caused the train to derail, crashing into the Pecos Chamber of Commerce building.
Three train cars were reported to be carrying hazardous materials, including lithium batteries. Authorities quickly secured these materials, and no breaches or environmental risks were detected. Union Pacific released a statement emphasizing its commitment to cooperating with local authorities and first responders as investigations continue.
Chief Lisa Tarango of the Pecos Police Department reported that three individuals sustained minor injuries and were treated at a hospital before being released. Those inside the Chamber of Commerce building at the time also suffered minor injuries but are recovering. Tarango expressed condolences to the families of the victims, noting the dedication and service of the Union Pacific employees.
Several streets near the crash site remain closed as cleanup and investigations are underway. Officials are focusing on the damaged train cars and assessing the structural impact on the Chamber of Commerce building. Reeves County authorities have confirmed that all hazardous materials have been contained, ensuring no further risks to public safety.
The Pecos community is reeling from the loss of two valued individuals and the devastation caused by the accident. Support services are being extended to affected families and residents. This incident highlights the critical need for heightened safety measures at rail crossings to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Investigations by local authorities and Union Pacific are ongoing, and more details are expected as they work to determine the precise circumstances that led to this tragic event.