Train Carrying Hazardous Materials Derails After Bridge Collapse Near Columbus, Mont.

COLUMBUS, Mont. (AP) – A bridge collapse near Columbus, Mont. on Saturday, June 24, 2023 caused a freight train carrying hazardous materials to plunge into the Yellowstone River below. According to Stillwater County Disaster and Emergency Services, multiple rail cars were immersed in the river, and the cause of the derailment is still under investigation.

The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office reported that multiple tanker cars were damaged and leaking petroleum products near the Yellowstone River. The train cars were carrying asphalt and sulfur, according to David Stamey, Stillwater County’s chief of emergency services. The bridge collapse occurred around 6 a.m. local time.

The Stillwater County Disaster and Emergency Services is working with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and other agencies to assess the environmental impact of the crash. The department is also working to contain the hazardous materials and clean up the area.

The cause of the bridge collapse is still unknown, and the investigation is ongoing. Local authorities are urging people to stay away from the area until the investigation is complete and the cleanup is finished.