Amtrak train carrying more than 90 passengers collides with 18-wheeler near Houston
Key Takeaways
- It has been reported that Amtrak Train 2, en route from Los Angeles to New Orleans, struck an 18-wheeler near Missouri City, Texas, around 11:10 a.m. local time.
- The train reportedly had 93 passengers and 11 crew members onboard; there were no serious injuries, though two minor injuries were treated on scene and a fuel spill was contained.
- Passengers were evacuated, transported by chartered buses to the next station, and the train did not derail.
- Travel disruptions on major long‑distance routes can affect people traveling to immigration appointments, hearings, or consular interviews; affected travelers should notify authorities and seek documentation of delays.
What happened
It has been reported that Amtrak Train 2, traveling between Los Angeles and New Orleans, came into contact with an 18‑wheeler on Union Pacific tracks near Missouri City, about 20 miles southwest of Houston. Missouri City Fire Chief Mario Partida said crews extinguished a fire and contained a fuel spill; the train did not derail. Amtrak said there were no reports of serious injuries; two minor injuries were treated at the scene and passengers and crew were evacuated and moved east on chartered buses.
Impact on travelers, including immigrants
While this incident did not cause serious injuries, it illustrates how transportation disruptions on intercity routes can have outsized effects on people with time‑sensitive immigration obligations. Many immigrants and visa applicants rely on Amtrak as an affordable way to reach USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) or consular appointments, and to attend immigration court hearings overseen by EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review). Missed appointments or hearings can have serious consequences, so documentation of the delay and immediate communication with the relevant agency or court are important.
What to do if your immigration travel is affected
If you were on this train or had a same‑day immigration appointment, notify the agency or court as soon as possible and keep proof of the delay (Amtrak receipts, incident reports, photos). For USCIS appointments, use the contact instructions on your appointment notice; for immigration court matters, contact the court or your attorney immediately. If you need legal guidance, consult an immigration lawyer or accredited representative—do not assume missed appointments can be ignored. Amtrak customers seeking refunds or rebooking should contact Amtrak customer service for options and documentation.
Source: Original Article