A road near the Sumas border crossing in Abbotsford, British Columbia, has reopened after a train derailment caused a temporary closure overnight. The Southern Railway of British Columbia Limited confirmed that traffic is now moving again on 4th Avenue, which had been closed earlier for safety reasons.
The incident took place overnight when a freight train operated by the railway company derailed near the Canada-U.S. border. Authorities responded quickly to the scene. Thankfully, no one was injured, and there was no damage reported in the nearby community.
Earlier in the day, the Abbotsford Police Department had posted on social media that 4th Avenue was shut down between West Railway and the commercial vehicle entrance at the Sumas border. This closure affected local and cross-border traffic. Drivers were advised to avoid the area while crews worked to clear the wreckage.
Railway crews were on-site for several hours. They focused on removing the derailed cars and ensuring that the area was safe for vehicles and pedestrians. As a result, the road remained blocked during the morning hours.
By early afternoon, the Southern Railway of British Columbia Limited announced that the road was safe to reopen. At approximately 12:50 p.m. on Friday, 4th Avenue was opened to traffic once again.
Officials have not yet confirmed the reason for the derailment. The company has not shared further details about what caused the train to leave the tracks. An investigation may follow to determine the exact cause and whether safety procedures need to be updated.
Local residents and businesses expressed relief that the derailment did not lead to injuries or environmental damage. Trains often move through the area, and any major accident near the border could disrupt both travel and trade.
The Sumas border is a key crossing point between Canada and the United States. It is used by commercial trucks, tourists, and local traffic. Any disruptions to this route can cause delays and affect cross-border movement. Officials were quick to act to prevent longer-term closures.
In recent years, train derailments have raised concerns about railway safety, especially in areas near homes or important infrastructure. While this derailment did not lead to serious harm, it serves as a reminder of the need for constant safety checks on rail lines and equipment.
The Southern Railway of British Columbia Limited plays a key role in regional freight movement. Its lines connect businesses and industries across the Lower Mainland. Safe and timely operations are essential for the economy and for community trust.
As of now, the company has not said when more details about the derailment will be available. Residents are advised to stay informed through official updates if any changes occur.
Authorities will likely review the incident to make sure similar problems do not happen in the future. In the meantime, drivers using the 4th Avenue route can continue with their regular travel plans.
