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The cause of a train fire in Kingston is currently under investigation. The fire occurred early Thursday morning (January 1) when a locomotive belonging to the Catskill Mountain Railroad Company caught fire near the Kingston Plaza shopping area. Firefighters responded to the blaze around 3 a.m. and spent approximately two hours bringing it under control. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
According to a statement from the Kingston Fire Department, the fire happened on a spur of track used by the tourist train operated by the Catskill Mountain Railroad. The company speculated that the fire might have been set intentionally, as they shared a photo showing footsteps in the fresh snow leading to the tracks from the Interstate 587 embankment. However, investigators have not yet confirmed whether arson is suspected.
The Kingston Fire Department's Fire Investigation Division is handling the investigation. They have not released details about the extent of the damage to the locomotive or any potential impact on rail operations. Fire officials expressed gratitude for the quick response of the crews and the public's cooperation during the incident.
As the investigation continues, more information will be released when available. Anyone with information about the fire is encouraged to contact local authorities.