GERARD, Saskatchewan — A Canadian National intermodal train has derailed near the Manitoba border after striking a farm 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.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada said it has sent an investigator to the accident site.
— Updated Oct. 17 at 7:15 p.m. with TSB announcement.
Melville and Saskatchewan are WEST of the border with Manitoba…
Was this a farm tractor? Not clear what kind of tractor.