BY TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
Two locomotives and two rail cars hauling lumber derailed under the Center Avenue bridge in Merrill shortly before 1:30 a.m. this morning, directly north of the Agra Pavilion building on the River Bend Trail. The engines are on their sides while the rail cars remained upright. The train is part of the Canadian National Railway with routes regularly traveling through Merrill.
One of the first to respond to the scene and call for emergency assistance reported speaking with the engineers immediately afterwards and that no one was injured in the derailment.
While the cause of the derailment has not yet been released, one local former FBI agent said most derailments in the summer are typically caused when the heat expands the metal in the rail lines, exacerbating small cracks, and ultimately causing a break or shift in the line. Extensive crews are currently on the scene dealing with the derailment and checking all of the lines.
No hazardous materials were involved, and there is no danger to the public. The Merrill Police Department is asking people to stay out of the area so crews can focus on clean up efforts.
This is a developing story. Be sure to read next week’s Merrill Foto News for a complete update as information is released.