(The following appeared on the Tribune website on May 15, 2010.)
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — A spokesman for BNSF Railway said up to 6,800 gallons of diesel fuel spilled from two locomotives that crashed in the Wind River and along its bank this week.
Two locomotives and four freight cars derailed Wednesday when a southbound train hit a boulder on the track about five miles south of Thermopolis.
Crews continued Friday to remove the engines and rail cars and to clean up materials that spilled.
BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas said crews have used absorbent pads and vacuum skimmers to try to contain fuel that spilled in the river.
State environmental officials don’t expect significant environmental impacts because the fuel has been diluted in the river.
The track was expected to be repaired and reopened today.