Amtrak train accident kills 3 in Montana, US: What you need to know

Picture Courtesy: AP

At least 3 people have been confirmed dead and several injured as an Amtrak train came off the tracks in the state of Montana. The Empire Builder train, which runs between Seattle and Chicago, was carrying 146 passengers and 16 crew, Amtrak said.

Seven of the ten carriages were derailed near the town of Joplin, Montana, about 30 miles from the Canadian border, at about 4 pm local time. Eric Weiss, a spokesperson from Amtrak said ‘a 14-member team would visit the scene, including investigators and specialists in railroad signals and other disciplines’.

The cause of the derailment is still unknown and is being investigated as of now. The National Transportation Safety Board is looking into it.

Amtrak released a statement saying, "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 traveling 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.”

Montana State Senator, Steve Daines said in a tweet, "I am thankful for the first responders already on the scene and praying for the safety of all involved”.