Train derails on highway in Arkansas, cleanup operations underway

ARKANSAS COUNTY, Arkansas — Update: In an updated incident report, ARDOT said that emergency crews were able to clear the railroad car from the road shortly after 10 p.m. on Saturday.

On Friday, 40 Union Pacific wagons derailed in Arkansas County near Stuttgart, one of which even ended up on Highway 79 and blocked traffic.

No injuries or injuries were reported as a result of the derailment. Emergency crews have been on site since then, attempting to repair the damage.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) said it is working to reroute people who are unable to use Highway 79. According to an ARDOT accident report, travelers are advised to take Highway 146 as an alternate route.

“We want to provide alternative routes for people in this area,” said Dave Parker, ARDOT’s communications director. “That’s our focus.”

A Union Pacific spokesman said the investigation into the cause of the derailment is ongoing. Although the investigation is still in its early stages, Parker has a theory as to what may have happened: high winds due to severe weather.

“Initial reports said it was due to high winds,” Parker said. “Of course there will be further investigation, but that is the preliminary cause we have been given.”

Parker said emergency crews will ensure Highway 79 is in good driving condition before it reopens.

“We will make sure that everything is in good condition,” Parker said. “There is nothing there that could pose a danger or safety risk to the drivers.”