SAND SPRINGS, Okla. — Authorities are working to clean up a train derailment in Sand Springs.
The train derailed near Highway 97, blocking the highway's southbound lanes. OmniTRAX general manager of operations James Tilton said the 16 car train was carrying coal westbound, and weather issues caused the back of the movement to come off the tracks.
"We were making a normal routine train movement into the property here Sheffield Crossing, and during that movement, there was ground saturation that created what’s called open gauge and created a minimum derailment of four cars in the move," said Tilton. "Unfortunately the tail end of the train ended up in the highway 97 crossing, which has caused the block."
Local OmniTRAX crews contacted Sand Springs law enforcement, who responded to assist with traffic.
"The crews require permits to move the equipment, the equipment is on the way," said Tilton. "We plan to have the highway 97 open back up by 1 O'clock, and then we’ll work on the derailed cars."
Around 1:30 p.m. all lanes were cleared and the southbound lanes are open.
Tilton said they will thoroughly inspect the site and all associated to prevent further incidents.
2 News crews are learning more.
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