Feb 13, 2024

Work continues at site of rural Kansas train derailment

Posted Feb 13, 2024 3:30 PM
Photos Barber County Emergency Management
Photos Barber County Emergency Management

EDITOR'S note: Information on the number of train cars derailed was provided by Barber County and not BNSF.

BARBER COUNTY—Officials with Burlington Northern Railroad are still working to determine the cause of train derailment Monday in Barber County. 

Just after 5a.m. Monday the 20 train cars carrying mixed freight derailed east of the rural community of Hazleton, according to Barber County Emergency Manager Mike Loreg. Seventeen cars were on the ground.

There were no injuries to the crew. BNSF personnel continue working to clear the incident as quickly and safely as possible. One track reopened overnight and trains are running on that, according to Loreg. The other track was still closed as of 9a.m.. 

Drivers in the area are advised to avoid the area due to all of the heavy equipment being used, according to Loreg.  There was no danger to the homes in the area.  Everything was contained. 

Hazelton, is approximately 24 miles southeast of Medicine Lodge and just north of the Oklahoma border.