Union Pacific Rebuilding Lincoln Railroad Bridge After Collapse

The century-old bridge was destroyed by an unattended campfire earlier this week.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Union Pacific crews have begun rebuilding a century-old railroad bridge in Lincoln, Nebraska that collapsed after being damaged by an unattended campfire on Monday. The fire broke out around 3:45 a.m. and eventually caused the bridge over Salt Creek to collapse just before 5:30 a.m. The investigation into the incident is ongoing as authorities work to determine if the fire was arson.

Why it matters

The collapsed railroad bridge is an active rail line, and its destruction has disrupted train traffic in the area. Rebuilding the bridge is a critical infrastructure project for Union Pacific and the city of Lincoln. The investigation into the cause of the fire could also lead to criminal charges if it is determined to be arson.

The details

According to Lincoln Fire and Rescue, an unattended campfire got out of control on Monday morning and set the railroad bridge ablaze. The burning bridge eventually collapsed just before 5:30 a.m. Union Pacific has not provided an estimate on when the rebuilding work will be completed and train traffic will resume on the line.

  • The fire broke out around 3:45 a.m. on Monday, February 24, 2026.
  • The railroad bridge collapsed just before 5:30 a.m. on Monday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Union Pacific

A major American railroad company that owns and operates the railroad bridge that was destroyed.

Lincoln Fire and Rescue

The fire department that responded to the blaze and determined the cause to be an unattended campfire.

Lincoln Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident to determine if the fire was arson.

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What’s next

The Lincoln Police Department is continuing its investigation into the cause of the fire, and authorities are working to determine if any criminal charges will be filed.

The takeaway

The destruction of this critical railroad infrastructure highlights the importance of fire safety and the need for vigilance in preventing unattended fires, which can have significant consequences for the surrounding community.