Producer: Pentrex/ Video Rails
Location: San Bernardino
Timeframe: 1989
Length: 28 minutes
True event. An out of control Southern Pacific train wreck in San Bernardino, California. This occurred on May, 12 1989. A 69 car Potash Train lost brakes while traveling downhill. Estimated speed was in excess of 100 mph when it detailed on a curve rated for 30 mph.
A single DVD. The program is largely authentic newsreel footage. Some still photographs, as well. Color film is grainy. Live environmental audio. Cameras are very close. Viewer discretion is advised.
No main menu, other than play the show or previews. Map is included. Narrated by an uncredited guy who performs fine.
To the Trains… 👉
The train detailed at Duffy Street in San Bernardino. Underestimated weight and some defective dynamic brakes led to the accident. Additional factors are discussed in the show.
Derailed hoppers and the sand like cargo cover the landscape.
Southern Pacific locomotives are destroyed. A helper with inoperable dynamic brakes reduced braking power and was part of the cause.
Duffy Street is part of the disaster zone. Several homes are obliterated.
A multitude of first Responders go about various search and rescue operations.
Canine units search for survivors and are successful.
The SP has sent a repair crew from Colton. Torches are used to cut through heavy steel on the train equipment. Fireman work together with the torch crew in a long recovery.
Rescue dogs located a survivor buried under six feet of Potash. The surviving man is dug out that evening.
Tragedy at Cajon Pass
One of the worst freight train disasters in the USA. The level of devastation in severe. Camera access was in the middle of the rescue. It is a well organized program.
Although the subject is grim. Viewers shall see this detailed account of the tragic event. Running time is a brief 28 minutes. Probably all the length needed for coverage.
Rating: 4 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 