Snow slide derails train near Glacier National Park

HELENA — Nineteen cars of a freight train have derailed near Glacier National Park in Montana, forcing Amtrak to bus passengers around the blocked track.

BNSF Railway spokesman Gus Melonas says the derailment shortly before noon Wednesday started with the 33rd car of a 115-car train bound for Pasco, Wash.

The train derailed near Essex, about 45 miles east of Whitefish, affecting cars carrying lumber, paper, plastics and boat products. No one was injured.

Melonas says some cars will be re-railed and others will be pushed aside so repairs can be made, hopefully within 24 hours.

The derailment was initially believed to be caused by snow slide, but it is under investigation.

Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari says buses will make all scheduled stops along the Empire Builder's route between Havre and Whitefish.