NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – A train derailed north of the Village of Mesita on Monday afternoon. According to a Facebook post from the Pueblo of Laguna, residents residing in the village proper area are now allowed to return home. The Pueblo states smoke will continue to linger throughout the night and heavy traffic will remain onsite for 48-hours or longer to clean up the wreckage. This will reportedly affect residents living on the northeast side of the plaza along Roadrunner Road, Red Rock Road, and Morning Side Road.
According to the Pueblo of Laguna, Mesita residents are advised to keep their windows closed to keep the smoke out. The Pueblo initially said those under evacuation, can head to Laguna Middle School, and those without transportation can go to the Mesita Community Center for transportation to Laguna Middle School. The Pueblo says in the meantime, the middle school will provide dinner and cots.
If you need help with evacuating or questions to contact Virgil Siow Incident Commander at 505-259-7468 or Captain Greg Concho 505-379-8409 or Shawna Douma, Public Information Officer at 505-238-3830.
According to a spokesperson with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, one locomotive and some cars derailed but the total involved is still unknown. They say there are no hazmat concerns. As of right now, both of the main lines are blocked so there is no train traffic.
As of Monday evening, the Laguna Police Department says no injuries have been reported. No other information was provided. The cause of the derailment is under investigation.
