Gordon, Texas — A train derailment that sent more than 30 rail cars off the tracks west of Gordon last week led to days of coordinated emergency response, specialized propane flaring operations, and environmental monitoring — but ultimately concluded without injuries, property damage, or danger to the surrounding community.
Derailment and Initial Response
At about 2 p.m. on Aug. 12, rail cars derailed near the Coalville Road Bridge in southwestern Palo Pinto County. Firefighters, deputies, Union Pacific Railroad HAZMAT teams, and hazardous materials contractors quickly responded. Grass fires sparked by the derailment were managed by local fire crews. All personnel were accounted for, no injuries were reported, and initial checks found no hazardous leaks. Officials described the scene as “stable but not yet fully controlled” during the first evening of operations.
Damaged Propane Car and Liquid Flare
Closer inspection revealed one tank car carrying propane had significant damage. Out of caution, the Unified Command — made up of Palo Pinto County Emergency Services District #1, Union Pacific HAZMAT, and contracted specialists — elected to conduct a liquid flare, a process in which propane is safely vented and ignited in a secured pit.
The flare operation began on Aug. 13. Officials warned residents they would see smoke and possibly flames, but stressed there was no risk to the public. To minimize radiant heat and avoid additional brush fires, the flaring was slowed, extending the process into Aug. 14. Fire watch teams remained in place throughout.
By the afternoon of Aug. 14, the propane had been safely flared off, the damaged tank car was stabilized, and Unified Command declared the operation successful.
Air Monitoring Results Released
Union Pacific mobilized environmental contractor CTEH to conduct real-time air monitoring with approval from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
More than 550 readings were taken in and around the derailment site, nearby streets, and residential areas. According to the results, no toxic or flammable substances were detected outside the immediate work area. Low levels of smoke and dust, consistent with firefighting and cleanup operations, were recorded only within the site.
Deputy Chief Kent Farquhar of ESD #1 said the results confirmed what officials stressed throughout the incident: “Air monitoring confirmed the scene remained safe for the community throughout the incident.”
Although the train carried cars containing hydrogen chloride, no release occurred and no chlorine-like odors were detected.
Site Turned Over to Union Pacific
By Aug. 15, trains were once again moving through the Gordon area. Unified Command was dissolved, and control of the scene was turned back over to Union Pacific. Cleanup and construction work at the site are expected to continue for several weeks, but all hazards have been cleared.
Palo Pinto County ESD #1 praised the coordinated response that brought the incident to a safe conclusion. “The outcome — no injuries, no property loss, and a safe resolution — is the direct result of teamwork and caution at every step,” officials said.
