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Monday, March 18, 2024
March 18, 2024

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Authorities investigating train tank puncture

The Columbian
Published:

BEND, Ore. — Authorities are continuing to investigate a rail fuel spill caused by somebody placing a piece of railroad track that punctured a moving locomotive fuel tank in downtown Bend.

Burlington Northern Santa Fe spokesman Gus Melonas says the railroad company is now treating the Tuesday incident as a case of local vandalism and trespassing — though it’s not ruling out sabotage.

Melonas said investigators still don’t know a motive.

He said the fuel tank has been temporarily repaired and the locomotive is in route to Seattle where it will be permanently repaired.

About 2,000 gallons of diesel fuel were spilled as the train moved at 25 mph.

BNSF has cleaned up fuel from two railroad crossings and a road, and plans to clean railroad rock.

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