A CN Rail train has derailed near the Cassiar Cannery in Port Edward due to a mudslide that took place around 12:45 P.M this afternoon. Lax Kw’alaams Band, upon whose territory the derailment took place, has since confirmed it took place between Cassiar and Sunnyside at mile 80 on the Skeena River.
CN Rail has confirmed to CFNR News that several empty grain hopper cars ‘had derailed in various positions, as well as the lead locomotive.’ There were no injuries reported among the crew, who exited safely, and were then attended to by first responders.
Lax Kw’alaams Band issued a statement indicating they are aware of the situation, confirming it is about 2 track miles east of the North Pacific Cannery. The owners of the nearby Cassiar Cannery had also posted to social media indicating the slide took place near them, that the road was blocked as a result, and that they were safe. The Cassiar Cannery had also urged the public to avoid the area, as the area was unstable with recent rain and snow.
The Lax Kw’alaams Band confirmed that while some train cars have derailed, no spills have been reported, and there have been no complications from dangers goods. CN Rail has since confirmed that were there were no dangerous goods aboard any of cars that derailed.
The band says slide activity is continuing and its Lands, Resources and Stewardship department has warned its members, and the public at large, to avoid the area and be aware of the danger.
This is a developing situation and we’ll have more updates as they can be confirmed.
