Train derails near Bonners

A train derailment at 1:55 a.m. by Katka mountain southeast of Bonners Ferry destroyed both parallel sections of Burlington Northern Santa Fe track and accordioned, piling and twisting 19 train cars less than a week after a smaller derailment on the same stretch of track.

The train cars, which were around the mid-point of the 116 car train were carrying crushed bentonite clay product. Seattle BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas said nothing spilled in the river, which is flowing at a higher level for sturgeon spawning, and no hazardous materials were involved in the wreck. The train originated in Great Falls, Mont., with a destination of Pasco, Wash., and was also carrying general merchandise, beer and grain.

Local Bonners Ferry crews responded to the call, and crews were called from Havre, Whitefish and Libby Mont., Spokane and Pasco, Wash. Heavy equipment was called up from Pasco as well as a hazardous response team, which determined there is no environmental or public threat, said Melonas.

BNSF crews worked through the night Thursday as trains were positioned at points east and west in anticipation of the track reopening at 8 a.m. today. The cause of the derailment is still under investigation.