In his backyard: GHD’s Kent Farquhar’s experience of the Gordon, Texas derailment
At a glance
When a train derailed just outside Gordon, Texas in Palo Pinto County, the incident was more than a headline, it was a test of community resilience and professional capability. For Kent Farquhar, volunteer fire chief and high-hazard specialist at GHD, the emergency unfolded in his own backyard. His unique blend of local leadership and global emergency response experience shaped the outcome for the community.The incident: Rapid response and safety first
On August 12, 2025, 35 rail cars carrying hazardous materials including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), diesel fuel, gasoline, xylene and toluene left the tracks in Gordon. Five fire stations responded, including one which Kent was a volunteer fire chief. With Kent serving as Incident Commander, he helped orchestrate the efforts of Palo Pinto County Emergency Service District 1 and coordinated with the transportation company’s hazmat, environmental contractors and state agencies.
Despite the scale and complexity, Kent’s team quickly established command, staged resources and prioritized safety. Recon teams assessed for leaks and vapors, confirmed no spills or open rail cars and managed brush fires without compromising chemical safety. The site was stabilized, and a critically damaged LPG tank car was safely flared under Kent’s direction, with fire watch maintained around the clock until the site was rendered safe three days later.
Leadership rooted in experience
Kent’s journey began as a firefighter, then in emergency response, before joining GHD as a high-hazard contamination specialist. His relationships with rail companies and contractors, built over years of collaboration, proved invaluable. As Incident Commander, Kent was responsible for approving operational plans, assuring safety, requesting resources and guiding tactics and planning. His deep knowledge of derailment response and familiarity with everyone on scene made the incident command system run smoothly.
Lessons learned and lasting impact
The Gordon derailment highlighted the importance of preparedness, relationships and capability. Kent’s ability to “know what to do and be at the right place at the right time” assured safety was prioritized above all else.
For GHD clients, Kent’s story is a testament to the value of having experienced specialists on their side — professionals who bring both technical skill and community commitment to every challenge.
Emergency management at GHD
Kent’s role at GHD extends beyond local emergencies. As part of GHD’s Fast Incident Response Services Team (FIRST), he helps clients manage high-hazard contamination, develop operational plans and navigate complex regulatory environments. The group’s services include:
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Emergency response planning and real-time incident management
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Risk and vulnerability assessments
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Business continuity and recovery plans
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Advanced environmental and remediation services
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Customized training, exercises, and stakeholder engagement
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Industrial hygiene and air monitoring
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Restoration and closure reporting
GHD’s emergency management group leverages real-world experience to deliver practical, effective solutions for clients facing high-risk scenarios.
Contact us to discuss how we can help your organization with emergency management, planning and response.