An Amtrak train traveling from Chicago to Seattle/Portland derailed in a remote part of Montana on Saturday afternoon. Three people were killed in the incident and five others suffered injuries requiring hospitalization. In total, eight cars derailed at about 4 p.m. near Joplin, Montana.

Facts of the Case

The Amtrak train in question consisted of two locomotives and 10 cars. There were about 141 passengers and 16 crew members on board. According to an Amtrak statement, “We are deeply saddened to learn local authorities are now confirming that three people have lost their lives as a result of this accident. There are also reported injuries among the passengers and crew members travelling on the train.”

Initial investigations showed that five passengers suffered injuries that required hospitalization. One crew member suffered a broken arm.

Amtrak has activated an Incident Response Team and “are sending emergency personnel and Amtrak leadership to the scene to help support our passengers, our employees and their families with their needs,” the statement said. Immediate reports show that no crew members were at fault for the derailment.

According to a passenger on a sleeper car on the train, “I would describe the experience as kind of extreme turbulence on an airplane but louder, and there was kind of a lot of smoke smell. The first thought I really had…was, ‘Oh my God we’re derailing.”

The victim stated that she was evacuated within 10 minutes of the incident.

Rossi Vucinovich is closely monitoring this case and will provide updates as more facts emerge. Our firm is currently representing victims from the 2017 Derailment in Dupont WA.

Contact Rossi Vucinovich for Help

If you sustained a railroad injury, please contact our firm for help. Rossi Vucinovich PC has been helping railroad employees and injured people in railroad accidents recover from railroad injuries for over 50 years. We are dedicated to helping you obtain the benefits you need to treat your injuries, pay your bills, and continue supporting your families. Do yourself a favor and contact us today to get the legal help you deserve.