Derailed train hits utility pole in east Austin, causing power outage early Tuesday
One of the train cars hit a utility pole in the area, causing a power outage. Austin Energy responded to the scene and de-energized the downed power lines.
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A couple hundred people are without power in east Austin after a train derailed and hit a utility pole early Tuesday morning.
According to the Austin Fire Department, a train derailed near the intersection of East Sixth Street and Robert T. Martinez Jr. Street shortly after 4:30 a.m.
AFD said seven train cars were turned over. Two of those cars contained gravel and five were empty. The total length of the train is 90 cars, AFD added.
One of the train cars hit a utility pole in the area, causing a power outage. AFD said Austin Energy responded to the scene and de-energized the downed power lines.
Austin Energy's outage map showed that more than 250 customers in the area were without power as of 6 a.m. The expected restoration time is around 6:45 a.m.
No injuries were reported, and no hazardous materials were involved. AFD also said no structures were hit.
A KXAN reporter on the scene said there was a road closure at East Seventh Street and Pedernales Street. Drivers in the area should expect closures nearby as crews work to clear the scene.
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