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By Josh Hall/RedDeerNewsNow

Train carrying liquid asphalt derails between Blackfalds and Lacombe

Jul 3, 2021 | 10:42 AM

NOTE: The original RCMP release identified the contents spilled as “tar sand.” After speaking with RCMP who clarified, we have changed the wording to better reflect what the train was carrying.

A 23-car train hauling tar oil, or liquid asphalt, derailed in central Alberta Friday evening.

Blackfalds RCMP say they received a call about a train derailment at about 8:15 p.m.

RCMP, along with Lacombe Police Service, EMS, Lacombe Fire, CP Rail and CN Rail all responded.

Emergency officials remain on scene at Highway 2A and Range Road 270A, between Township Road 401 and Township Road 402. The location of the crash is five minutes from the north end of Blackfalds.

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Emergency crews are actively working to contain and manage the spill, a release says. Four cars were carrying the liquid asphalt, though just one actually spilled. There were no fires caused by the derailment.

RCMP say as of Saturday morning, CP Rail Police have taken over the investigation.

According to a post by the City of Lacombe on Facebook, one rail car released 32,000 litres of oil, and three homes had to be evacuated. The City also says Hwy 2A could be shut down for 36 hours, while the rail line will be closed for at least 16 hours.

Traffic is being rerouted and police ask the public to avoid the area. There are no reported injuries and no ongoing public safety risk.