05/14/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Williams Police Department
Media Release – Train Burglary Investigation / Multi-Agency Response
On May 13, 2026, at approximately 8:07 a.m., officers with the Williams Police Department responded to a report from BNSF Railway Police regarding a possible train burglary near Airport Road and the railway underpass in Williams, Arizona.
BNSF Railway Police advised that multiple individuals were observed in the area and were believed to be connected to the incident. Officers from the Williams Police Department, assisted by deputies from the Coconino County Sheriff's Office, quickly responded and conducted a coordinated search of the area.
During the operation, four adult male suspects were located near the railroad tracks north of Airport Road and safely detained without incident. Officers also recovered multiple pairs of sneakers believed to be connected to the burglary investigation.
Special Agents from Homeland Security Investigations responded to the scene and assumed investigative responsibilities related to the incident. The Williams Police Department assisted with transportation, scene coordination, and translation support as part of the multi-agency response.
Investigators believe this criminal activity may be connected to an organized cargo theft group operating throughout Northern Arizona and linked to similar incidents investigated by the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office and the Navajo County Sheriff's Office. These organized theft crews are suspected of targeting high-value cargo shipments traveling along Interstate 40 and the BNSF railway corridor.
This investigation remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available through the appropriate investigating agencies.
Anyone with information related to suspicious activity near railway property is encouraged to contact the Williams Police Department or BNSF Railway Police.
