Oil-laden train derails, ignites in Canada: officials

An oil-bearing train derailed and ignited in western Canada today, just months after the massive Lac-Megantic catastrophe highlighted the danger of transporting fuel by rail.

Officials said the fire has not yet been contained in Gainsford, a town some 80 kilometres (50 miles) west of Edmonton, after the 13-car Canadian National train derailed.

The train carrying crude and liquid gas left the track for unknown reasons at around 1 am (0500 GMT), federal transport officials said.

Canada's transportation safety board said no one was believed injured in the accident.

Chris Krespki, a spokesman for the board, told media an investigation is underway.
 

In July, a train carrying crude derailed in Lac-Megantic in Quebec, setting off a huge explosion that killed 47 people and caused massive damage.