Locomotive engineer Clay Burt, a member of BLET Division 212 in Sweetwater, Texas, was severely injured and passed away shortly after arriving at the hospital. Images: courtesy of Reeves County Texas
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Two Union Pacific train crew members were killed in a grade crossing collision in Pecos, Texas, on December 18. Locomotive engineer Clay Burt, a member of BLET Division 212 in Sweetwater, Texas, was severely injured and rushed to a hospital in Odessa, but he passed away a short time later. The conductor, Phillip Araujo, was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other people were injured when debris from the violent collision smashed into the Pecos Chamber of Commerce building located near the tracks.
The National Transportation Safety Board has dispatched a team to investigate the tragedy, and the BLET Safety Task Force has been granted Party Status to assist with the investigation.
BLET National President Eddie Hall said: “Our hearts go out to the families of Brother Burt and conductor Araujo who lost their lives. This was a tragic accident, and a reminder that much more needs to be done to make railroading safer.”
More information will be provided when available.
