Several empty train cars derailed in North Portland, no reports of injuries

PORTLAND, Ore. - Emergency crews responded to a train derailment in North Portland on Sunday afternoon, Portland Fire & Rescue said.

No one was injured in the incident.

Initial reports state that 6 empty freight cars derailed near the intersection of North Interstate Avenue and Thunderbird Way, just north of the Steel Bridge. Three of the cars were for lumber, two were box cars, and one was a tanker.

Crews at the scene said there are no hazardous materials leaking from the train cars.

Investigators have not released a cause for the derailment.

“I’ve been a firefighter for 18 years, and this is the second derailment I’ve ever seen. And both of them were low-speed, and very low impact to the public,” said Lt. Damon Simmons.

While there are no major traffic impacts from the emergency response, officials ask people to avoid the area.

Below is the full statement from Union Pacific Railroad:

Today, around 4 p.m. PST, a Union Pacific train derailed 6 empty rail cars along the Kenton Line in Portland, Oregon. There were no injuries reported and no hazardous materials involved. The cause of the derailment is under investigation. Union Pacific personnel and first responders are on-scene assessing the situation.

This is a developing story; updates will be posted as information comes in.