Highway 17 closed due to train derailment

OPP have closed Highway 17 between the 11/17 junction and Schreiber, after nearly two dozen cars in a CP Rail train went off the track.

No one was injured in the incident.

CP Rail said around 11:20 a.m. today an eastbound train derailed between Nipigon and Rossport, causing 22 cars to leave the track. The highway was closed as a precaution due to a potential propane leak. Highway 17 runs close to the rail line. 

OPP said several of the cars contained propane, but no leak has been confirmed. Police also reported the train was carrying crude oil, but CP later clarified that there was no crude. 

OPP said the road is expected to be closed for about 24 hours. Drivers are being told to take Highway 11 and Highway 631 as a detour.

A CP Rail work crew, CP Police and Nipigon/Schreiber Fire and Rescue were all dispatched to the scene. A Hazmat Unit from CP Rail must arrive at the scene before any cleanup can begin.

The Transportation Safety Board said it is sending two investigators. They are expected to arrive on Wednesday morning.

Salem Woodrow, a spokesperson for CP Rail, said the train was carrying mixed freight, including intermodal cars. Seven cars carrying propane were involved in the derailment. 

Woodrow said safety is a top priority for the railway, and every incident is taken seriously. 

She said CP's emergency protocols have been enacted and all safety precautions are being taken as its crews respond to the situation with local officials.