6 derailed train cars land in Mississippi River

Tim Nelson and The Associated Press
A rail car lays in the ice of the Mississippi.
A rail car lays in the broken ice of the Mississippi River at the scene of a train derailment Wednesday along Hwy. 26 south of Brownsville, Minn. Authorities say two of six derailed train cars have broken through the ice on the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota.
Andrew Link | The Rochester Post-Bulletin via AP

Share

Updated: 3:50 p.m. | Posted: 6:49 a.m.

Six Canadian Pacific freight train cars fell into the Mississippi River after a derailment late Tuesday night.

Railroad spokesman Andy Cummings said the derailment involved 15 cars, carrying a variety of freight. No injuries were reported.

The derailment happened about 10 p.m. Tuesday on the tracks that parallel Highway 26 along the river in Houston County.

One of the cars in the water contains grain. The other is carrying sodium chlorate. Sheriff Mark Inglett says it doesn't appear to be leaking.

KSTP-TV reports a hazardous materials team from Winona and the U.S. Coast Guard's Pollution Response Unit were called to the scene.

Gallery

Grow the Future of Public Media

MPR News is supported by Members. Gifts from individuals power everything you find here. Make a gift of any amount today to become a Member!

Providing Support for MPR.
Learn More
Program ScheduleStation Directory