Flooding likely caused major train derailment near Sacramento
Cars from a freight train derailment lie along the track and in the water of the swollen Cosumnes River on Saturday, near Elk Grove, Calif.
A Union Pacific spokesman says flooded, swamp-like conditions were likely a factor in the partial derailment of a 33-car freight train in suburban Sacramento.
The derailment Friday sent 22 rail cars into the mucky and swollen Cosumnes River. There were three people aboard, but no one was injured.
Railroad spokesman Justin Jacobs told the Sacramento Bee on Saturday that the area around the low-lying tracks was near the overflowing river and flooding may have contributed to the accident. Officials had to halt their investigation late Friday because of rising water. The crash remained under investigation Sunday.
The Union Pacific train carrying food products was headed from Tracy to Roseville on Friday when it derailed at roughly 1 p.m. in the city of Elk Grove.
Hazardous materials crews were called to the scene as a precaution.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
