windows on the partly submerged cars to provide escape routes. Although the official death toll stands at 47, this is an estimate as several bodies were swept into the Yellowstone River, one body being recovered at Glendive downstream. 75 people were injured. Newspapers reported the paradox that modern air-conditioned rolling stock requiring sealed windows, and the use of shatterproof glass was partially responsible for some deaths Investigation The investigation determined that the volume and velocity of water flowing beneath the bridge that night was "much in excess of any that had been experienced before or might be anticipated at this place". The bridge structure was still intact when the train reached it but two of the central piers had been undermined. The weight of the locomotive caused the piers to subside and the bridge to collapse. References External links Custer Creek, MT Washout Of Trestle Causes Wreck, June 1938 ICC Investigation No.2278 British Pathe newsreel Railway accidents in 1938 Railway accidents and incidents in Montana 1938 in Montana Bridge disasters in the United States Bridge disasters caused by scour damage Prairie County, Montana Accidents and incidents involving Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad June 1938 events