Union Pacific train carrying coal derails just west of Bennett

Union Pacific train carrying coal derails in eastern Colorado

Eight Union Pacific railcars derailed just west of Bennett early Wednesday morning, blocking North Harback Road and causing damage to the rail. Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue says no one was injured and none of the coal spilled, but that the road and rail line will be closed for quite a while for cleanup and repair.

Rails on the line can be seen to be bent under the derailed cars. CBS

The view from the CBS Colorado news helicopter over the derailment showed extensive damage to the rails, but access to East Colfax Avenue as well as to the town of Bennett remains clear.

Union Pacific tells CBS Colorado the incident is currently under investigation.

Joel Hillan

Joel Hillan is an Assignment Desk Editor at CBS News Colorado. His reports from The Desk can be seen on CBS Colorado Mornings.