Update: Statement on Empire Builder Derailment Near Joplin, Mont.

Excerpt:  “We are deeply saddened to learn local authorities are now confirming that three people have lost their lives as a result of this accident. There are also reported injuries among the passengers and crew members travelling on the train. Amtrak is working with the local authorities to transport those who were injured to medical care, and to safely evacuate everyone else at the scene. … At approximately 4 p.m. MT on Saturday, Sept. 25, Empire Builder train 7/27, traveling westbound from Chicago to Seattle/Portland, derailed operating on BNSF tracks near Joplin, MT. There were 146 passengers and 16 crew members onboard. The train consisted of two locomotives and 10 cars, with eight of those cars derailing. We have a team on the ground to fully support the [National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)] as they investigate the cause of the derailment.”