BAYTOWN, Texas — Approximately 12 cars derailed after one Union Pacific train rear-ended another on Friday night, sending two cars into a canal that feeds Houston’s water supply, KTRK-TV reports.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported the incident about 8 p.m. on social media, and said no injuries were reported and no hazardous materials were involved. Two of the cars ended up in a canal connecting the Trinity and San Jacinto rivers, leading the city of Houston to shut off its water pumps. KTRK reports officials now say there was no risk to the water supply. The Sheriff’s Office had initially reported that the derailed cars were carrying plastic pellets, but the station reports some cars involved carried liquid propane, while others were empty. No leak was reported.
A Union Pacific representative told KRIV that the incident occurred just outside a rail yard and is under investigation.
Baytown is just east of the Houston city limits.
— Updated at 8:15 p.m. with photo and additional details.
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