On January 4, 2025, a freight train disaster occurred in Corvallis, Oregon, when a railroad trestle collapsed while a 19-car freight train was crossing the structure. The incident took place around noon near Avery Park, with one of the train cars plunging into the Marys River. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the train crew or any nearby individuals.
The train, operated by Portland and Western Railroad, was carrying agricultural materials, including urea, a substance often used as a fertilizer. This raised concerns about potential contamination of the river, leading local authorities to issue public advisories, urging the public to avoid the area due to possible water quality issues.
Images from the scene depicted a dramatic scene, with one covered hopper fully submerged in the river and another partially in the water. Several additional freight cars were left precariously perched on the edge of the collapsed railroad bridge.
Investigation and Prior Concerns Over Bridge Integrity
The cause of the railroad trestle collapse is still under investigation. However, some Corvallis residents had raised concerns about the bridge’s structural integrity in the past. Previous reports revealed issues with the trestle, including a fire that had raised doubts about its stability, leading to heightened public awareness about the safety of the structure.
Cleanup and Containment Efforts in Marys River
Cleanup operations are currently underway, with local authorities deploying containment booms to prevent further contamination from leaking materials into the river. The ongoing efforts aim to mitigate any environmental damage caused by the railroad trestle collapse and protect the Marys River ecosystem.
The incident has highlighted the importance of maintaining infrastructure and the need for continuous inspections to prevent future accidents. The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and work on resolving the aftermath.
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