Fiery crude oil train derailment in Washington state

 

The investigation of a fiery derailment of seven BNSF train cars carrying crude oil from North Dakota to a refinery in Washington state is underway in Custer, Washington, 100 miles north of Seattle.

The Associated Press reported that the fire closed nearby streets in Custer and two people on board the train escaped injury. A nearby Interstate 5 was also temporarily closed.

The derailment happened shortly before noon as the 108-car train was headed to the Ferndale Refinery owned by Phillips 66. BNSF tweeted that the company is working with local  authorities to assess the situation and the cause of the incident was under investigation.

Washington state has at least five oil refineries and millions of gallons of crude oil are transported every week through the state.

The derailment spurred Washington state Democratic Rep. Rick Larsen to suggest his work to create strong rules under the Obama administration wasn’t finished and more would be necessary. He is a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

 

Source: Associated Press