Vandalism Endangers Big Spring Rail System

 

BIG SPRING, TX — A series of vandalism incidents targeting the Big Spring Rail System has resulted in significant damage and posed a threat to public safety, according to a report filed on April 22, 2024.

On April 20, 2024, security footage captured three individuals tampering with a "Snake Track" switch at the 3011 block of W IH 20. The tampering left the switch open, leading to $4,000 in damages and nearly causing a train derailment. The incident was documented under case number 24-0465.

 

Earlier footage from April 2, 2024, showed two juveniles in the vicinity of the crime scene. Then, on May 23, 2024, cameras recorded two individuals walking along the railroad tracks—one male wearing a red shirt and black shorts and a female in a white shirt and black shorts. Subsequent investigation revealed that two railroad switches had been tampered with, again risking a derailment. This incident was logged under case number 24-0627.

 

Between June 6 and June 10, 2024, another act of vandalism was reported when a stop sign near a railroad crossing was removed and placed on the tracks. This act, intended to cause a derailment, resulted in $600 in damages, documented as case number 24-0682.

The Howard County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance to identify those responsible for these crimes. Anyone with information is urged to contact CrimeStoppers at (432) 263-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip through the “P3 Tips” mobile application or the website www.p3tips.com/1277.

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