Portland Fire and Rescue

Portland Fire & Rescue Responds to a Fire Involving a Semi Truck and Several Rail Cars. (Photo)

December 13, 2015 15:20

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to a semi-truck that crashed into a train at 8:50 am this morning. First arriving fire crews noted at least 6 rail cars on fire with flames 70' high. Crews were uncertain of the material that was burning upon arrival but quickly set up firefighting operations to prevent the fire from spreading. There were a total of 3 alarms called including responses from PF&R's Marine response team, HazMat team as well as Vancouver Fire and Port of Portland Fire. The semi-truck was carrying flammable fuel which was the only material that was on fire. The rail cars contained hot asphalt and did not leak or catch fire. A total of 8 rail cars were damaged by fire. The rail cars were not moving at the time of the accident. The fire was under control at 10:34 am.

Portland Bureau of Emergence Management assisted PF&R by activating the Community Emergency Notification System. Residents close to the incident were advised to shelter in place until authorities determined that no threat to public health existed.

We have no information on the driver of the semi at this time. No other injuries were noted in association with this incident. Portland Police's Major Crash Team is on scene and is investigating the crash.

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