Derailment knocks out column supporting bridge July 7, 2017
US 59 has been closed in Jefferson following the collision of two trains near the railroad overpass. The collision cause some of the rail cars to derail and knocked out one of the support columns on the west side of the overpass.
The collision occurred around 10:50 a.m. at a railroad crossroads with Union Pacific and Kansas City Southern railroads. No injuries were reported and no hazardous materials were involved in the collision and derailment.
The Texas Department of Transportation has flown in bridge inspectors to determine the extent of the damages to the bridge structure and to determine if traffic could safely use the opposite side of the bridge. US 59 will remain closed until inspectors determine that the bridge is safe on which to travel.
US 59 traffic is being detoured onto FM 2208, SH 49, FM 248 and FM 1324.