Perhaps a switch not reset?
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Looks like what happens on my O gauge layout when I put a long (20+ car) freight in reverse.
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Based on the Google view of the whole area, the head-end was headed for an industry in about 10 more car-lengths. Perhaps the 'derail'- protection performed its' intended purpose. Glad no serious injuries.
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Bottom right. Looks like the head end plowed into something. Maybe something long and heavy. That would account for all the backward energy being transmitted to the 2nd unit and lighter well cars.
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