Nashville

UPDATE: Bedford County Residents Given All-Clear to Return Home After Wartrace Train Derailment

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Published on January 20, 2026
UPDATE: Bedford County Residents Given All-Clear to Return Home After Wartrace Train DerailmentSource: Google Street View

Residents of Bedford County, Tennessee, who experienced an unplanned exodus in the wake of this morning's railroad derailment near the small town of Wartrace, have been given the green light to return to their homesteads. 

The evacuation was a precautionary measure that temporarily displaced residents, but officials have since confirmed it is safe to return. The update was shared in a social media post by the Bedford County government.

Although residents have been cleared to return, county officials recommend remaining indoors once home. Bugscuffle Road remains closed to the general public, with access limited to residents returning to their homes. Officials are on site to assist with access and ensure safety during the transition. The closure is part of ongoing cleanup efforts following the derailment.