Freight train derailment, fire forces Interstate 40 closure near Arizona-New Mexico line

SANTA FE, N.M. — A freight train carrying fuel derailed and caught fire Friday near the Arizona-New Mexico state line, forcing the closure of the highway that serves as a major freight route.

No injuries were reported in the train wreck east of Houck, the Arizona Department of Transportation said in a news release. The first passersby posted videos and photos on social media of crumpled train cars and billowing black smoke.

Interstate 40 was closed in both directions in the area by authorities early this afternoon, forcing trucks and motorists to be diverted from the highway to alternate routes, New Mexico State Police and the Arizona Department of Public Safety announced.

The train was carrying unodorized propane and gasoline, and a half-dozen train cars caught fire and burned for hours after the derailment, New Mexico State Police Lt. Phil Vargas said.

Nearby homes and a supermarket were evacuated as a precaution as the wind carried thick smoke and local firefighters responded.

“It looks like they’re just letting those train cars burn out,” Vargas said.

Traffic on I-40 backed up for more than 10 miles, although detours were opened on two-lane roads and highways, said Kristine Bustos-Mihelcic, a spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Transportation.

Railroad officials did not immediately respond to a phone message and emails.