Colorado's I-25 closed after fatal train derailment near Pueblo, investigation underway

A fatal train derailment on Sunday afternoon has resulted in the closure of both directions of Colorado's I-25 around Pueblo. According to Gary Cutler, a spokesperson for the state patrol, the driver of a semi-truck was killed in the incident, while no further details regarding injuries have been provided as of Monday morning.

During a press conference on Sunday, Brian Lyons of the Colorado State Patrol confirmed the tragic fatality and revealed that the train, operated by BNSF Railway, was transporting coal when it derailed around 3:30 p.m. The derailment occurred as the train was crossing the interstate on an overpass.

Motorists have been advised to steer clear of the area and anticipate delays, with the interstate closed between Mile Marker 110 and Highway 50, according to the Pueblo County's Sheriff's Office.


Numerous law enforcement agencies have been deployed to the site, and images shared by these agencies depict multiple train cars strewn across the interstate, along with a semi-truck apparently stuck under a collapsed railroad bridge.

BNSF Railway has affirmed that none of their crew members sustained injuries in the incident and that they are actively engaged in the cleanup effort at the site.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has announced his communication with Colorado Governor Jared Polis, stating that staff from the U.S. Department of Transportation are en route to provide assistance. "State & local authorities are leading the immediate emergency response, and we will be ready to help in any way needed to support a swift return to normal use for the highway and rail routes affected," Buttigieg assured.

The National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation into the derailment.