Amtrak train headed for FM derails in Missouri

BY CHUCK VANDENBERG
PCC EDITOR

FORT MADISON - An Amtrak passenger train headed for Fort Madison on the Los Angeles to Chicago route derailed today near Mendon, Missouri.

According to a statement from Amtrak, the Southwest Chief Train 4, traveling on BNSF tracks from LA to Chicago, derailed eight cars and two locomotives after striking a truck that was allegedly obstructing a public crossing near Mendon.

There were 243 passengers and 12 crew members onboard and there have been early reports of injuries. Mendon is northeast of Kansas City about three hours southwest of Fort Madison.

Andy Andrews with the North Lee County Historical Society, housed in the same depot building now as the Fort Madison Amtrak depot, said the train typically comes through Fort Madison at about 10:30 a.m. east bound to Chicago, but has been running late regularly.

He said Amtrak will likely dispatch buses to Fort Madison to accommodate those having tickets for that train's continuing service through Illinois to Chicago as the situation in Missouri gets resolved.

Amtrak's statement indicated local authorities are currently assisting customers. The Amtrak Incident Response Team has been activated and the company is deploying emergency personnel to the scene to help support passengers, employees and their families with needs.

Individuals with questions about their friends and family who were traveling aboard this train should call 800-523-9101.

Additional details will be provided as available.