At our July Membership Meeting, Mark Fagley (Manager of Operations, Union Pacific Railroad) provided insight as to what happened on Sunday January 10th around 10:30 AM in downtown Colfax.

If you are not aware, an westbound container train experienced a catastrophic failure of a wheel set on the 3-car set as it approached Colfax. The train remained on the tracks and upright until it reached the Grassvalley Street grade crossing. At which point several cars derailed and knocked down one of the crossing signals. A container was breach setting off a hazardous spill response by local authorities. After determining the spill was non-toxic brine for preserving hides, clean up began. Union Pacific officials overcame an enormous mess and working with contractor Jim Dobbas were able open the line at about 7:00 PM.

Mark explained the physical events of accidents as it is currently understood from an operations perspective.  He went on to explained the forensics of determining the cause or causes.  He included insight into current operating practices and helped us understand the complexities of train handling on “the Hill”.

The entire membership would like to thank Mark for taking the time to educate us on the details of the situation.  We also appreciate Mark reminding us of the dangerous environment for people around the railroad right of way.  He is extremely committed to making safety everyone’s responsibility.   Again Mark, Thank You from all of us.