By JAMES BELL
Hays Post

On Monday investigators from Union Pacific railroad were on scene at the site of a train derailment that occurred in Hays on Sunday.

While the investigators work to determine the cause of the accident, crews were working to clear the tracks and remove the overturned cars.

“We are investigating the accident,” said Raquel Espinoza, Union Pacific media representative.  “At this point, we do not know what caused it, but we are certainly investigating to find out what could have contributed to this accident.”

According to Espinoza, the investigation could take weeks or months but she said she could confirm details of the derailment.

“I can confirm that four rail cars that were carrying alcohol derailed from a train near Allen and Ninth Street yesterday at around 5 p.m,” she said.

She also noted that containment of the tanks remained intact.

While there were no injuries to the public, a UP employee was treated and released for minor injuries, according to Espinoza.

While the investigation is ongoing, the cars are being removed in an effort to restore rail traffic.

“We do have crews working in the area right now and they are working to clear the area as well as make any repairs that need to be made,” Espinoza said.

“I have not determined what time the line will re-open for rail traffic.”