Idaho Freight Train Derails Near Kootenai River

BONNERS FERRY, Idaho (AP / KTVB) -- A freight train has derailed in northern Idaho near the Kootenai River, but BNSF officials say nothing has spilled into the waterway and no hazardous materials were involved.

BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas says the train with three locomotives derailed at 1:55 a.m. Thursday five miles east of Bonners Ferry. The train, which originated in Great Falls, Montana, and was heading to Pasco, Washington, was carrying 116 loads of general merchandise, including beer products, rock material and grain.

Melonas says up to 19 cars derailed, and some "rock product" spilled. Response teams are on the site and the railway line could be closed for up to 24 hours during the cleanup. The cause of the derailment has not been determined.