A tragic accident unfolded in Pecos, Texas, on Wednesday evening when a freight train collided with a semi-truck that had become stuck on the tracks. The incident, which occurred around 5 pm near Oak Street and Dot Stafford Street, led to the derailment of several train cars, and a subsequent collision with the Pecos Chamber of Commerce building, causing partial structural damage.
The accident resulted in the death of one individual, while four others were injured, including the driver of the semi-truck. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, but emergency services quickly responded to the scene, rushing the injured to nearby hospitals.
Witnesses described the impact as catastrophic, with the freight train pushing the truck several yards before it derailed and plowed into the Chamber of Commerce building. The building’s structural integrity was compromised, though no fatalities were reported inside the building.
Local authorities, including the Pecos Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety, have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that the semi-truck was unable to move due to an unknown mechanical issue, which led to it being stuck on the tracks when the train approached.
The derailment disrupted train services in the region, with authorities working overnight to clear the wreckage and restore normal operations. Officials have expressed condolences to the victims' families and are urging the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues.
As of now, the condition of the injured remains stable, and further details will be provided once the investigation into the cause of the incident is complete.
