A BNSF train derailed early this afternoon near DeSoto, closing Highway 35 from State Highway 171 to 82 in DeSoto. Local traffic is able to access Ferryville. Southbound traffic was being re-routed east on 82 to south on 27, then back to 35. Northbound traffic was re-routed east on 171 to north on 27 and west on 82. We spoke with 3rd District Congressman Derrick Van Orden this afternoon who says his office has been in contact with local, state, and federal officials:
Two of the three locomotives and an unknown number of cars carrying freight of all kinds are reported to be derailed on the bluff side of the Mississippi River. The main track is blocked in both directions and an estimated time for reopening the track is pending. Crew members are accounted for, with one receiving medical evaluation. Local first responders are on-site. BNSF has personnel en route to the scene and the cause of the incident is under investigation.