Train Derailment in Denver Injures Rail Worker
DENVER — A train derailment occurred at BNSF Railway's Globeville yard early on August 5, trapping and severely injuring a rail worker. The conductor's leg was later amputated.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), a railroad switch was improperly aligned, causing railcars to collide with an already occupied train. The train involved had just arrived from Lincoln, Nebraska, and crew members were attempting to push another train down the track.
During the incident, eight railcars derailed, including three from the impacted train. The conductor was ejected from the train and subsequently trapped beneath a derailed car.
Authorities reported that the NTSB will focus its investigation on identifying industry hazards, training on switch operation, and proper procedures for “shoving movements.”
This incident is under investigation and further updates will be provided as they become available.