Train derails in Butler County

HILLIARD, Mo. -- Part of a freight train carrying empty tankers derailed early Saturday morning near Hilliard, causing the Union Pacific Railroad's north-south line to be shut down as a portion of its track was replaced.

As of Saturday evening, it was unknown when the line would reopen following the 26-car derailment, which occurred after 1 a.m. Saturday and involved a northbound Union Pacific train, according to Mark Davis, the railroad's public relations director.

Davis said it wasn't known Saturday how much track would need to be replaced.

The derailed tankers, he said, were all empty and last contained crude oil. No injuries were reported in the derailment, which still is under investigation, Davis said.

Work crews had to access Jim and Sue Schremp's land to work on the derailment.

Jim Schremp said he was worried about residual amounts of oil the tankers may contain.

"If that gets in the ground, the ground is ruined," he said.

Sue Schremp agreed.

"Our main concern is what happens to the tankers here, especially if they cut them up here on the property" before they are removed, she said.

Railroad personnel assured the Schremps environmental response personnel were at the site to do any necessary clean up should any leakages occur.

Pertinent address:

Hilliard, Mo.