Emergency crews in Whitecourt, Alta., respond to crash involving train, fuel truck

Emergency crews were called to a collision involving a fuel truck and a train in Whitecourt, Alta., on Friday morning.

The RCMP told Global News they were informed of the crash at 8:38 a.m. and that it occurred on Highway 43, near the junction of Highway 32.

They said people were asked to stay away from the scene because of the risk of an explosion.

Nancy Lacombe told Global News she works near where the collision occurred. She said when she first noticed a huge plume of smoke in the sky, she went to see what happened.

“Emergency crews had just gotten there,” she said, adding that it appeared to her as though the tanker had been leaking fuel.

“The ground was on fire, so it was pretty crazy.”

Police said firefighters and CN Police were also called to the scene.

The RCMP said one person sustained minor injuries.

Shortly after 10:30 a.m., the RCMP said their personnel and Alberta Sherriffs have contained the scene but people would need to avoid the area until further notice.

“RCMP anticipate being on scene for most of the day while emergency crews respond and police investigate,” the RCMP said in a news release.

“The public is asked to please avoid the area because, though the fuel is the only hazardous material involved, fuel is volatile and explosions are still possible.”

In an email sent to Global News on Friday afternoon, a spokesperson for CN (Canadian National Railway Co.) confirmed one of its trains was involved in the collision.

“There is no risk to the neighbouring community,” the spokesperson said. “CN wishes to thank the emergency response personnel for attending.

“The circumstances leading to the incident remain under investigation.”

Cpl. Matthew Howell spoke to Global News shortly before 3 p.m. on Friday. He said traffic would remain disrupted “until at least 10 p.m., if not later” and noted repair work will be needed on both the highway and rail line.

“The damage was pretty extensive,” he said.

Just before 4 p.m., 511 Alberta said one lane of Highway 43 reopened to alternating traffic, and Highway 32 was free to use.

In a 4:30 p.m. update, Whitecourt RCMP said the fire was extinguished and their officers were preparing to leave the area.

“CN will remain on scene, assisted by LEDCOR for traffic, in order to repair damage to the rails. The public is warned that traffic will be heavy in the area as only one lane will be reopening on Highway 43 until repairs are done,” the update read.

While investigators have not yet determined what led to the crash, Howell said the seriousness of Friday’s event shows how important it is to exercise safety precautions near railway tracks.

“Don’t try and beat the train,” he said, as a general warning. “I know some of these trains can be really long … I understand that, but that extra … (few minutes) you have to wait is not worth your life.

“Be on the lookout. Be careful. Slow down when you get to a crossing, just to be sure you’re safe before you go across.”

–with files from Adam Toy, Global News