Mike Conaway | 11th District of Texas

"Suzanne and I are deeply saddened by the events in Midland last night.  Our heartfelt prayers are with the Heroes and their families who have been affected by this tragedy.  I am comforted in knowing that the citizens of Midland and all of their neighbors are waiting with open arms to care for injured and grieve with those who lost loved ones.

"I have offered my support to Mayor Perry, Judge Bradford, and all of the first responders, and my office stands ready to assist them in obtaining any resources that they need.

"I would ask, as so many other already have, that we continue to pull together as a community to help and support one another.  Please keep our Heroes, their families, Terry Johnson, and the entire Hunt for Heroes organization in your prayers today and in the coming weeks ahead."

If you would like to help, please see the information below. This will be updated periodically as needed.

*The Chamber of Commerce has announced there will be a Candlelight Vigil tomorrow, Nov. 17^th, at 6 p.m. at the Centennial Plaza. All those who wish may gather to honor and show their support for the Heroes and their families and friends. The Chamber has asked participants to bring their own candles due to a limited number available. Thank you.



WAYS TO HELP

DONATIONS FOR VICTIMS & THEIR FAMILIES – these donations will go toward medical expenses, food, and lodging:

-          KMID Big 2 will be accepting donations at Chick-Fil-A on 42nd Street in Odessa starting at 11am.

-          Mr. Gatti's in Midland: Fundraiser Monday November 26 from 5pm to 9pm. 15% Of food sales will go to those in need. Here is how you can help those affected by the Train Tragedy in Midland.

-          Music City Mall is accepting donations.

-          There is an account at Complex Community Federal Union for Victims

-          Taco Villa at Midland Drive and Andrews Highway is accepting donations.

-          Western National Bank has set up a "Hunt For Heroes" account. You can contribute at any Western National Bank location in Midland or Odessa.

-          Medical Spa of Midland & Family Care Clinic (4506 Briarwood, Midland) will be taking donations today to help the victims. Any amount will help! We open at 8:00 & close at 5:00 today (Fri).

BLOOD DRIVE DONATIONS:

-          The United Blood Services will have a blood drive today (Friday) at Midland High School from 9am to 3 pm and at the Odessa United Blood Services location until 8:30pm.

-          United Blood Services is also taking blood donations at locations throughout West Texas. However, due to the high volume of calls, please call or go online to make an appointment first. Click here to find the closest location http://www.unitedbloodservices.org/aboutUs.aspx  or call these numbers:

o   Midland – (432)520.4592 or (432)561.5539.

o   Odessa – (432)550.6553

o   San Angelo – (325)223.7500

MORE INFORMATION

-          National Transportation Safety Board is handling the investigation of the accident.  If people have questions regarding the investigation, call the Office of Public Affairs.

o   (202)314.6100

-          Union Pacific Railroad has provided a number for the affected families, if they need assistance.

o   (877)877.2567, Option 1

-          Mayor Perry has asked Midland citizens to show support by lowering their flags to half-mast until Monday morning at 8:00 a.m.