A Canyon Spirit passenger train collided with a tanker truck on Wednesday morning, May 6, 2026, in Garfield County, Colorado [2, 4].

The accident caused the derailment of several train cars and a significant hazardous material spill, disrupting transit on a major Western Slope highway.

The collision occurred on Highway 6 near Mile Pond Road, located just east of Rifle [1, 3, 5]. The tanker truck was carrying oil or hot asphalt tar, and approximately 6,000 gallons of the material spilled into the surrounding area following the impact [1, 2].

Reports on the severity of the accident vary slightly among sources. Some reports indicate that several train cars derailed [1], while others describe the train as partially derailed [3]. Regarding casualties, some reports said there were no injuries [3], but other accounts confirmed that minor injuries were reported [1].

Local authorities closed U.S. 6 to manage the scene and facilitate cleanup efforts [5]. The Colorado State Patrol is currently investigating the cause of the crash [1].

Emergency crews worked to contain the 6,000 gallons [1, 2] of spilled substance to prevent further environmental contamination. The exact nature of the material, whether oil or asphalt tar, remains a point of variation in initial reports [1, 3].

“Approximately 6,000 gallons of oil or hot asphalt tar spilled into the surrounding area.”

The incident highlights the persistent risks associated with grade crossings where heavy industrial transport intersects with passenger rail. The spill of 6,000 gallons of viscous material like asphalt tar complicates recovery efforts and necessitates a specialized environmental cleanup to prevent long-term soil and water contamination in the Garfield County region.