From the McPherson Fire Department 

Work continues following a train derailment and grass fire that occurred Sunday morning March 12, 2023, on the south side of McPherson, Kan. 

At approximately 0942 hours 03/12/2023, McPherson Fire Department was dispatched to the 1200 Block of South Main Street for a small grass fire. Upon arrival, crews discovered a small grass fire and a train derailment.                    

The fire was quickly extinguished, and crews began mitigation procedures for the train derailment. Crews discovered thirteen cars had derailed. Two of those rail cars were leaking denatured alcohol. 

Crews worked diligently through Sunday night and mitigated most of the hazmat potential lessening the risk to the environment. We anticipate emergency crews being on the scene for most of Monday as hazmat response continues clean-up efforts. Union Pacific can begin moving rail cars once the hazmat potential is alleviated. 

We want to remind citizens that there is no risk to the community at this time and all roads are open for normal traffic.                    

We ask that citizens continue to avoid the area, as there are many agencies working diligently on this scene. We will provide updates as needed. 

Members from CHS, KDHE, McPherson County Dispatch, McPherson County Sheriff’s Department, City of McPherson Police Department, Union Pacific, Board of Public Utilities, and McPherson EMS have been assisting in mitigation efforts. 

Specific Questions regarding the train can be directed to Union Pacific Media Representatives at 402-544-5034 or follow the link: https://www.up.com/media/contacts/index.htm 

You can also stay up to date by following the McPherson Fire Department Facebook page.