A coal train near Elkford, B.C., has derailed. (Image Credit: Elk Valley RCMP)

By Haven Thibert

East Kootenay coal train derailment blocking roadway

Jan 14, 2026 | 8:55 AM

It will likely be some time before a road in southeastern B.C. fully reopens.

On Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 8:51 a.m., Elk Valley RCMP received a request for assistance from Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Police and attended the 1500 block of Fording River Road, 23 kilometres north of Elkford, B.C.

Police say approximately 15 to 20 train cars carrying coal derailed and were piled together on their sides.

An estimated two to three feet of coal spilled onto the roadway, fully blocking the road.

Drive B.C. says the road is open to single-lane alternating traffic, but drivers should expect delays of up to one hour.

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No injuries were reported.

RCMP say the investigation is being led by CPKC Police.

Elk Valley officers notified partner agencies, including Main Roads and the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, as well as community stakeholders. They remained on scene to assist with traffic control until CPKC Police investigators arrived.

Any further questions regarding the investigation are being directed to CPKC Police.