BNSF Media Statement on Heimdal, N.D. as of 5:00 p.m. CDT May 7

Date
May 7, 2015

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - BNSF estimates the mainline track in Heimdal, N.D. involved in a derailment of six tank cars carrying crude oil on May 6, 2015 will open at approximately 1:00 p.m. CDT on Friday May 8th, 2015.

BNSF crews are currently working to clean up the area, remove the derailed cars, and repair the damaged track at that location.

We are thankful there are no injuries and regret the inconvenience this incident has caused local residents. BNSF has established a Claims Center in the area and is reaching out to affected residents to assist with expenses associated with their evacuation.

BNSF Media Statement on Heimdal, N.D. as of 7:30 a.m. CDT May 7

The fires involving yesterday’s derailed tank cars in Heimdal, N.D. have been extinguished. Local residents who were earlier evacuated from the area near the derailment were advised yesterday evening by local officials that it is safe to return to their homes. The BNSF team has removed a majority of the crude oil from the derailed tank cars. Upon completion of the NTSB’s investigation, the derailed cars will then be moved from the site and the remaining clean up and track repairs will begin.
 
Local first responders remain on the scene as do BNSF personnel. BNSF team members will continue to assist first responders.

We are thankful there are no injuries and regret the inconvenience this incident has caused local residents. BNSF has established a Claims Center in the area to assist those who evacuated.

BNSF Media Statement on Heimdal, N.D. as of 3:00 p.m. CDT May 6

At approximately 7:30 am CDT today, a BNSF train heading eastbound experienced a derailment of six tank cars at Heimdal, N.D. The BNSF train consisted of 109 total cars – 107 cars loaded with crude oil and two buffer cars loaded with sand. There were no injuries. There is a fire at the scene involving the six derailed cars. All other cars have been pulled away from the scene to a safe distance. The tank cars involved in the incident are the unjacketed CPC-1232 models. Local first responders are on the scene as are BNSF personnel. BNSF team members will continue to assist first responders.

We are thankful there are no injuries and regret the inconvenience this incident has caused local residents. BNSF has established a Claims Center in the area to assist those who evacuated.

BNSF is able to reroute eastbound and westbound Amtrak and BNSF freight traffic to maintain traffic flows.

BNSF Media Statement on Heimdal, N.D. as of 11:15 a.m. CDT May 6

At approximately 7:30 am CDT today, a train derailed at Heimdal, N.D. carrying crude oil. The train consisted of 109 total cars – 107 cars loaded with crude oil and two buffer cars loaded with sand. There are no injuries but there is a fire at the scene. The tank cars involved in the incident are the unjacketed CPC-1232 models. Local first responders are on the scene as are BNSF personnel. Additional BNSF personnel are en route. BNSF team members will continue to assist first responders.

BNSF Media Statement as of 9:30 am CDT on May 6, 2015

At approximately 7:30 am CDT today, a train operating approximately 50 miles east of Minot, N.D. derailed carrying crude oil. Initial reports from the crew indicate there are no injuries but a fire has been reported at the scene. The tank cars involved in the incident are the unjacketed CPC-1232 models. BNSF will work with the nearest first responders.

About BNSF
BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states, and also operates in three Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain and agricultural products, low-sulfur coal, and industrial goods such as petroleum, chemicals, housing materials, food and beverages. BNSF’s shipments help feed, clothe, supply, and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced, and efficient railroads in the industry. We work continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy, and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve. You can learn more about BNSF at www.BNSF.com.