(The Associated Press circulated the following on June 10.)
WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Investigators are trying to determine whether a freight train derailment in Westminster was an accident, or human-caused.
A BNSF train carrying lumber and building materials jumped the tracks about 10:35 p.m. Monday after one of four locomotives struck “tree debris.” Authorities aren’t yet sure whether it was a tree or large branch, or whether someone may have placed it on the tracks intentionally.
Police say it will take days to investigate the derailment and clean up the mess.
Three crew members were aboard when the derailment occurred. One was transported to a hospital with minor injuries.
The train contained four locomotives and at least 37 rail cars. It’s unclear exactly how many cars derailed.
Trains normally using that line are being rerouted farther east.