Federal officials are currently investigating a tragic collision that occurred in Pecos, Texas, involving a Union Pacific train and a tractor-trailer carrying heavy equipment. The collision resulted in the unfortunate deaths of two Union Pacific employees. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is working to determine why the tractor-trailer was stationary on the tracks, leading to the devastating crash that caused the train to derail and propelled the heavy equipment into the air.
According to the NTSB, the tractor-trailer was situated on the tracks for approximately one minute before the collision took place. The train was traveling at a speed of around 68 mph (109 kph) before the crew initiated emergency braking procedures in an attempt to prevent the impact.
The collision had severe consequences, causing the heavy equipment to be launched into a nearby building. The Chamber of Commerce building sustained damage as a result of the collision, and reports indicate that some individuals within the building suffered injuries. Fortunately, the injuries sustained by all three individuals involved in the collision were minor, as confirmed by the Pecos police chief.
NTSB has retrieved a data recorder from the wreckage, which is currently being transported to their laboratory for further analysis and investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
