News Summary
A Union Pacific train derailed in Kirby, Texas, affecting approximately 15 rail cars carrying new Toyota trucks. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and no hazardous materials were involved. Cleanup efforts are underway, but road closures will disrupt local traffic for up to 48 hours. This incident adds to the troubling trend of derailments for the company, prompting investigations into safety measures to prevent future occurrences.
Kirby, Texas – Union Pacific Train Derailment
On February 15, 2025, approximately 15 rail cars of a Union Pacific train derailed near the intersection of Gibbs Sprawl Road and Fratt Road in Kirby, Texas, at around 1 p.m. local time. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and there were no hazardous materials involved in the derailment. The rail cars, which were carrying new Toyota trucks from a local plant in San Antonio, separated from the tracks and rolled over.
Cleanup Efforts and Road Closures
Union Pacific is responsible for the cleanup following the derailment, with city officials indicating that Gibbs Sprawl Road in the vicinity will be closed for 24 to 48 hours as recovery efforts are organized. This closure is expected to create some disruption for local traffic but is necessary to ensure the safe removal of the derailed cars.
Background on Derailments
This incident marks another incident in a worrying trend for Union Pacific, which has reported multiple derailments across several states in recent times. Prior to the Kirby derailment, another significant incident occurred about 17 miles southwest of the South San Antonio yard, where 35 empty covered hopper cars derailed in Lytle, Texas. The underlying causes of these derailments, including the Kirby incident, are currently under investigation.
Kirkby’s Profile
The city of Kirby, located approximately 8 miles northeast of San Antonio, has a population of around 8,142 according to the 2020 census. While Kirby is predominantly a residential area, the presence of nearby industrial activity, including local manufacturing plants, makes it a relevant stop along Union Pacific’s rail network.
Conclusion
As investigations into the cause of the Kirby derailment continue, Union Pacific is expected to enhance its safety measures to prevent further incidents. Local authorities and residents remain attentive to the situation, with ongoing communication regarding traffic closures and cleanup efforts.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- San Antonio Current
- Wikipedia: Train Derailment
- Trains News Wire
- Google Search: Union Pacific Train Derailment
- KSAT
- Google Scholar: Train Accident 2025
- News 4 San Antonio
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Train Incidents
- KTSA
- Google News: Train Derailment Pecos
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
