The train was four cars long and at least two cars derailed. Officials are reporting that there are no hazardous substances on the train.
According to an update from Wyoming Department of Public Safety, the engine was pushing three rail cars that derailed.
The engine is still on the tracks. The reason that the rail cars derailed was due to a safety mechanism that was put on the tracks for rail workers further up the line. According to the report, the safety mechanism is designed to derail the cars to protect the workers. This is much like a “lock out” tag system used by electrical or mechanical engineers / maintenance workers so that machines don’t start up while they are performing maintenance work. Police said the system did exactly what it was designed to do. Officials said they have been told that normally these derailers are placed a little further down the line so that if cars are derailed they don’t block the roadway.
There has been a report of one minor injury reported (sprained ankle) to one railroad worker.
Currently 36th Street is blocked at Buchanan Avenue SW on the east end and it will be blocked at Clay Avenue on the west end while the rail cars are taken care of. Also all vehicles that take the north bound off ramp from 131 to 36th Street will be directed to the west. Drivers are being encouraged to find alternative routes.
The Wyoming Department of Public Safety said it does not have an anticipated time that the roadway will open. Officials said barricades will be in place to assist with traffic control.
