CN closes tracks near Edson after trains collide

Canadian National Railway has closed the tracks near the town of Edson after a low-speed collision derailed several cars.

Two trains sideswiped each other around 7 a.m. Sunday, the railway confirmed. CN stated that there is no risk to the public.

Cpl. Mathew Howell, the RCMP’s public information officer, said police responded at 7:12 a.m. to a collision near Hwy. 47 and Township Rd. 530. Initial reports were of a possible brake failure.

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“Initial investigation showed no injuries and no environmental risk,” said Howell.

He said that one train was carrying grain, and the other had batteries on board. There was no spillage of material.

RCMP have handed the matter over to CN Police.

“There were no fires or hazardous materials involved, the tracks remain closed at this time,” said CN spokesperson Ashley Michnowski. “CN would like to apologize for the inconveniences caused by this incident. More information will be provided as it becomes available.”

She said the cause of the collision is under investigation.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is sending a team of investigators to the site of the crash.

“The TSB will gather information and assess the occurrence,” reads a statement from the board.

VIA Rail’s operations have not been impacted by the track closure, as neither of its routes linking Edmonton to Vancouver via Edson and Jasper were in the vicinity.

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