NTSB Report Highlights Union Pacific Conductor Fatality in Nacogdoches

The Union Pacific conductor fatality in Nacogdoches has drawn national attention after the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its preliminary report. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The fatal accident took place on June 9, 2025, during a switching operation in Union Pacific’s Texas rail yard.

Union Pacific conductor fatality in Nacogdoches
Source, photo: www.trains.com

Investigators say the conductor made an incorrect cut that caused a railcar to foul the main track. Later, while making a shoving movement, the conductor was riding a railcar that sideswiped the fouling car. The impact proved fatal.

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Earlier that day, the yard’s manager of train operations had been evaluating the conductor’s performance. He observed the conductor from 8:30 a.m. until 3:10 p.m.—just 16 minutes before the incident. This timing has intensified scrutiny around employee training and safety oversight.

Key Issues in the NTSB Investigation

The NTSB launched a full-scale on-site investigation immediately after the Union Pacific conductor fatality in Nacogdoches. Investigators inspected track and railcar conditions, reviewed surveillance footage and locomotive data, and reenacted the incident. They also examined radio communications and Union Pacific’s employee training procedures.

Current investigative priorities include:

  • Certification and qualification of conductors
  • Rule compliance during switching
  • Oversight of yard operations
  • Safety standards for shoving moves

Second Fatality in a Year from Similar Cause

This preliminary report follows the final release on a similar fatality at Union Pacific’s Proviso Yard in Illinois on July 6, 2024. Both cases involved shoving moves and raised serious concerns over safety practices.

The Union Pacific conductor fatality in Nacogdoches has already triggered internal reviews. Final findings from the NTSB could result in significant changes to industry procedures and conductor training programs.

Source, photo: www.trains.com

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