UPDATE: No injuries after train derails in downtown Longview, blocking off city streets

Published 4:48 pm Thursday, July 17, 2025

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Longview firefighters respond after a train derailed in downtown near First and Tyler streets Thursday July 17, 2025, blocking downtown railroad crossings. (Les Hassell/Longview News-Journal Photo)

A Union Pacific freight train derailed in downtown Longview Thursday around 4 p.m., blocking downtown streets.

No injuries were reported in connection with the derailment. About 20 railcars were derailed but remained upright, said Mike Jaixen, senior manager of communications for the railroad.

No materials were released from any of the cars, Jaixen said.

Fredonia, Center and Horaney streets were blocked as of 5 p.m. The 500 block of E. Cotton Street was also blocked. Drivers and pedestrians are urged to avoid the area.

The derailment occurred near the intersection of First and Tyler streets. Railroad personnel are on scene and working to clear the area, police said.

This story will be updated with more information as it becomes available.

About Jordan Green

Howdy! I'm Jordan Green, a Report for America corps member covering underserved communities in East Texas for the Longview News-Journal. I'm a native Okie and have been a newsman since 2017. Email me at jordan.green@news-journal.com or call me at 903-237-7743.

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