Marshall, Texas – A freight train derailed in Harrison County on Saturday evening, leading the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office to shut down a portion of Farm to Market Road 2199. The closure extends north of Verhalen Road and south of FM 1998, according to a Facebook post from the sheriff’s office.
Law enforcement officers, along with fire and emergency medical responders, arrived on scene shortly after the incident was reported. Their primary focus is to secure the derailed equipment, assess any hazardous material risks, and ensure the safety of motorists and nearby residents.
Public safety instructions
The sheriff’s office issued a clear request to the public: “Please avoid the area, allow emergency crews room to work, and seek an alternate route.” Drivers traveling through the Marshall area are advised to use nearby thoroughfares such as FM 1998, FM 2199 north of the closure, or other local roads until the sheriff’s office lifts the restriction.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as emergency personnel work to safely manage the scene,” the sheriff’s office added. The statement emphasized that the closure will remain in effect until officials determine that the track and surrounding roadway are safe for public use.
Impact on the community
FM 2199 serves as a key connector for residents commuting between Marshall and surrounding rural areas. The temporary shutdown may add several minutes to travel times for commuters, school buses, and commercial traffic. Local businesses that rely on the route for deliveries have been notified of the disruption and are adjusting logistics accordingly.
While the derailment caused no reported injuries, the incident underscores the importance of rapid response by local first‑responders and the coordination between the sheriff’s office, Texas Department of Transportation, and the railroad company that operates the line.
What comes next?
Emergency crews will continue to inspect the derailed cars, remove any debris, and verify that no hazardous substances have been released. Once the site is cleared, the Texas Department of Transportation will conduct a thorough inspection of the track and roadway before authorizing the reopening of FM 2199.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office social media channels and local news outlets for updates on the reopening timeline. The sheriff’s office reiterated that safety remains the top priority and asked the public to remain patient as the situation is resolved.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
