Local News
Victims killed in train derailment in Pecos identified as Clay Burt and Phillip Araujo
A train derailment in Pecos City, Texas, on Wednesday afternoon left two people dead and three injured after a collision involving a tractor-trailer.
The incident occurred around 5:45 p.m. near Oak Street and Dot Stafford Street, approximately 430 miles west of Dallas, according to local authorities.
The two fatalities were identified as Union Pacific employees:
- Clay Burt, Locomotive Engineer
- Phillip Araujo, Conductor
Both were veteran transportation employees who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.
City Manager Charles Lino stated that the derailment was caused when a train collided with a tractor-trailer at a crossing near Oak Street and Dot Stafford Street.
Following the collision, the train derailed and crashed into the Pecos Chamber of Commerce building.
Three cars on the train were reported to be carrying hazardous materials, but officials confirmed there was no breach.
Investigators are currently focusing on two cars that were carrying lithium batteries. These have since been secured, and no environmental risks have been reported.
Union Pacific released a statement, emphasizing its commitment to cooperating with local authorities and first responders as the situation evolves:
“We are investigating this fluid situation as we cooperate with local first responders.”
Chief Lisa Tarango of the Pecos Police Department confirmed that three individuals sustained minor injuries and have since been released from the hospital.
Those inside the Chamber of Commerce building at the time of the incident were also treated for minor injuries.
Tarango expressed condolences, stating:
“Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the families of the victims and the Union Pacific Railroad family. These were dedicated and experienced employees who served their agency with distinction.”
Several streets in the area remain closed as investigators continue to examine the scene and cleanup efforts are underway.
Authorities are working diligently to assess the extent of the damage and ensure public safety.
Reeves County officials confirmed that no further risks have been identified and that all hazardous materials have been contained.
This tragic incident has deeply impacted the Pecos community, and support services are being extended to those affected.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
Local News
At least two killed, multiple trapped after explosion at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol
BRISTOL, Pa. (Bucks County) โ Emergency crews are responding to a major incident at the Silver Lake Nursing Home following a reported gas explosion that caused a partial building collapse.
The incident occurred at approximately 905 Tower Road, where a second alarm and a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) response were requested as conditions escalated.
First-arriving units reported significant structural damage to the facility, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue operation for residents and staff.
Authorities on scene indicated that approximately 15 patients were initially accounted for outside the building, while multiple others remain unaccounted for.
Rescue teams have reported numerous individuals trapped beneath debris on the second floor, as well as additional victims trapped in the basement area.
At least two fatalities has been reported in the basement, according to early emergency communications.
As the situation developed, a third alarm was transmitted, bringing in substantial mutual aid resources, including out-of-county fire, rescue, and emergency medical units. A medical helicopter has been placed on standby in anticipation of critical patient transport.
Emergency personnel continue to conduct systematic searches of the damaged structure while assessing stability concerns and coordinating patient triage.
The extent of injuries and the total number of victims have not yet been confirmed.
Road closures are in effect in the surrounding area as emergency operations continue. Officials have advised the public to avoid the scene to allow responders unobstructed access.
This remains a rapidly evolving situation.
Authorities are expected to release additional information as more details are confirmed.