Fuel Train Derailment in Arizona-New Mexico Border Ignites Interstate 40 Shutdown

A freight train carrying fuel derailed and caught fire near the Arizona-New Mexico state line over the weekend, forcing the closure of Interstate 40 highway in both directions. The New Mexico State Police responded to the incident along with multiple other agencies after receiving reports on Friday evening. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries despite the train’s derailment close to a busy interstate. Authorities revealed that the train was carrying gasoline and non-odorized propane when it lit on fire following the derailment. The Navajo Police Department also responded alongside other agencies. According to Smith, this incident followed severe weather in the region, including a tornado that hit Northeast Lincoln earlier in the day. Fire officials arrived at the scene of the freight train derailment as authorities closed I-40 in all directions while they worked on extinguishing the fire. Traffic was diverted via alternative routes until further notice.