GERARD, Saskatchewan — A Canadian National intermodal train has derailed near the Manitoba border after striking a tractor, the Canadian Press reports.
The incident occurred this afternoon (Oct. 16) at a grade crossing near Gerald, Sask. The driver of the tractor was killed, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, while a CN spokeswoman said the train’s crew was taken to a hospital for examination and care. No hazardous materials were involved; some dry and material goods were reported to have been spilled.
A nearby roadway, Range Road 1322, will be closed until Thursday morning for the investigation of a collision reconstruction team, the RCMP said.
A Trains subscriber aboard VIA Rail Canada’s eastbound Canadian estimated in a phone message to the magazine that about 18 container well cars are involved in the derailment. As of 7:40 p.m. CT, the Transit Docs website currently shows the Canadian stopped at Melville, Sask., about 60 miles east of the Manitoba border, and about 48 miles from Gerald.
