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

globalnews.ca:

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