Truck driver killed, UP train derailed in Texas crossing collision

By | February 14, 2023

Monday accident occurred about 40 miles north of Houston

A truck driver was killed and at least 15 intermodal cars were reportedly derailed as a result of a Monday grade-crossing accident near Houston. East Montgomery County Fire Department, via Facebook

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SPLENDORA, Texas — A truck driver was killed and at least 15 cars of a Union Pacific intermodal train were derailed following a grade-crossing accident Monday morning in Splendora, about 40 miles north of Houston.

Houston Public Media reports the accident occurred about 7:30 a.m. near the intersection of U.S. Route 59 and Fostoria and Midline roads. Lt. Troy Teller of the Splendora Police Department said 21 cars were derailed — other news reports quote other figures — and that UP hazardous-material teams were on site as a precaution. UP spokeswoman Robynn Tysver said UP crew members were not injured, and that about 100 gallons of diesel fuel from the truck were spilled.

The collision occurred at a grade crossing with no crossing gates, just a yield sign. The truck driver was pronounced dead at the scene.