A significant freight train derailment occurred in southeastern British Columbia on Thursday, November 29, 2025, with twelve train cars leaving the tracks east of Cranbrook.
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) confirmed the incident, stating that no injuries were reported among crew members or the public. The railway company immediately launched an investigation into the cause of the derailment.
Incident Details and Location
The derailment took place in a rural area approximately east of Cranbrook, a city located in the Kootenay region of British Columbia. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene to assess the situation and ensure public safety.
CPKC officials have not disclosed the contents of the derailed cars or whether any hazardous materials were involved. The company emphasized that their primary concern remains the safety of their employees and the surrounding communities.
Railway Response and Investigation
CPKC has initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine what caused the twelve cars to derail. Railway experts and safety investigators are examining the track conditions, train equipment, and operational factors that may have contributed to the incident.
The derailment occurred at approximately 3:13 PM Eastern Standard Time, according to initial reports. The company has established safety perimeters around the site while recovery operations prepare to remove the derailed cars and assess track damage.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
Local authorities have confirmed that no evacuations were necessary following the incident. The remote location of the derailment minimized potential impact on residential areas.
This incident marks another chapter in Canada's ongoing focus on railway safety, particularly in British Columbia's challenging terrain. CPKC has assured the public that they are following all safety protocols and cooperating fully with regulatory authorities.
As cleanup and investigation efforts continue, CPKC has not provided an estimated timeline for when normal rail operations will resume through the affected area. The company stated they will provide updates as more information becomes available.
