Train Derails in Washtenaw County Near Ann Arbor

More than a dozen train cars went off the tracks, closing several roads in the area.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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An Ann Arbor Railroad train derailed on Wednesday, February 18th, in Washtenaw County, Michigan, near the city of Ann Arbor. Thirteen rail cars went off the tracks, but no hazardous materials were involved and no injuries were reported. Several roads in the area were closed as a result of the incident, and they are expected to remain shut down for several days.

Why it matters

Train derailments can pose significant risks to public safety and the environment, especially if hazardous materials are involved. While this particular incident did not result in any injuries or environmental damage, it highlights the importance of maintaining safe and reliable rail infrastructure, particularly in populated areas like Washtenaw County.

The details

The derailment occurred around 5:06 pm on February 17th on Payeur Road east of State Street in Pittsfield Township. Thirteen rail cars went off the tracks, but none were carrying hazardous materials. No vehicles were involved in the incident, and no injuries were reported. Payeur Road between State Street and Marton Road, as well as Morgan Road between Venture Drive and Stone School Road, were closed due to the derailment and are expected to remain shut down for several days.

  • The derailment occurred around 5:06 pm on February 17, 2026.
  • The road closures are expected to remain in place for several days.

The players

Ann Arbor Railroad

A railroad company that operates about 82 miles of track from Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Toledo, Ohio, moving primarily auto parts, finished vehicles, and bulk materials.

Pittsfield Township Police

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the train derailment and is managing the road closures.

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What’s next

Pittsfield Township officials will continue to provide updates on the road closures and reopening through various communication channels.

The takeaway

This train derailment incident highlights the importance of maintaining safe and reliable rail infrastructure, particularly in populated areas, to prevent potential risks to public safety and the environment.