A train derailment near the Arizona-New Mexico state line on April 26, 2024, caused major disruptions and evacuations. According to multiple sources, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), at least 22 cars of a BNSF freight train derailed near Lupton, Arizona. Two tank cars carrying propane and gasoline caught fire as a result.
The incident led to the closure of Interstate 40 in both directions near Gallup, New Mexico. Evacuation orders were issued for nearby properties due to the hazardous materials response.
No injuries were reported in the derailment. The cause of the incident is under investigation by NTSB and FRA, with assistance from local, state, and tribal agencies.
The train was carrying non-odorous propane and gasoline at the time of the derailment. Hazmat teams were on site to provide support.
Amtrak passengers were stranded in Albuquerque due to the derailment, with Amtrak service between Albuquerque and Los Angeles suspended until tracks reopened.
The incident comes just over a month after another BNSF train came off the rails near Socorro, New Mexico, spilling millions of pounds of corn. In response to safety concerns raised by employees, BNSF reached an agreement with its unionized train dispatchers earlier in the week allowing them to report unsafe events confidentially without fear of disciplinary action or FRA enforcement.
The multi-agency Incident Command Post was active with various local, state, tribal and federal agencies working together to ensure safety in the region. Interstate 40 is expected to remain closed indefinitely until safety concerns are resolved.
