Four cars missing after train derails

Wed., Nov. 15, 2006

Associated Press The Spokesman-Review

MISSOULA – Four of a coal train’s cars were missing after a derailment and may be submerged in the Clark Fork River, officials said.

Representatives of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency were at the scene Tuesday.

No one was injured Monday when 27 cars derailed about 2 1/2 miles west of Trout Creek. They were part of a train with 115 cars and four locomotives.

“We do know that of the 27 cars, all but four have been accounted for,” said Lynda Frost, spokeswoman for Missoula-based Montana Rail Link. “The four could be in the river, but we haven’t been able to confirm they’re in the river, yet.”

Frost said the Clark Fork may be as deep as 80 feet where the derailment occurred.

Crews hope to have the tracks clear by midday Friday, Frost said. Rail traffic is being rerouted.

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