August 21, 2017 - Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers responded this morning to a train derailment caused when a commercial vehicle crashed into railway cars on FM 1279.
The preliminary investigation indicates at approximately 10:18 a.m., a 2006 Peterbilt truck tractor semi-trailer hauling timber was traveling west when it struck a moving northbound train consisting of 46 rail cars. Thirteen were derailed and overturned in the collision. One of the overturned railcars contained sodium hydroxide - the liquid spilled onto the ground. Hazardous materials teams are currently on-scene conducting clean-up efforts. Three homes were evacuated for safety purposes.
The driver of the log truck is identified as Jamie Cartwright, 33, from Shelbyville. Cartwright was transported to San Augustine County Memorial Hospital for possible treatment. This investigation is ongoing and further information is not available at this time.
August 21, 2017 - FM 1279 in San Augustine County is the scene of a train derailment and the roadway is currently shut down August 21, 2017.
According to TxDOT, the road will be closed until cleared. Prepare for delays in area.
