Canadian town marks 10th anniversary of train disaster

TRENTON, Canada

Residents of Lac-Megantic, Quebec were joined Thursday by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to mark the 10th anniversary of a train disaster that destroyed the small town’s core and killed 47 people.

The train with 72 cars loaded with crude oil derailed July 5, 2013, at 1 a.m. The force of the explosion and intense heat instantly vaporized victims and leveled buildings in the downtown area. Lac-Megantic is a town of about 6,000 people, 211 kilometers (131 miles) from Montreal just north of the Canada-US border.

Trudeau attended a Catholic mass of remembrance and issued a statement about the disaster.

“A decade ago today, one of the worst rail disasters in Canadian history took place when a freight train carrying crude oil derailed, caught fire, and exploded in the heart of the town of Lac-Megantic, Quebec,” it said. “The tragedy took the lives of 47 people, forced hundreds of residents to evacuate, and destroyed much of the community’s downtown core.”

“On this solemn day, we remember the precious lives that were lost and think of the people of Lac-Megantic who, 10 years later, continue to display strength and bravery as they endure the long-lasting traumatic impacts of this catastrophe.”

Residents gathered at the exact time of the accident for a silent vigil and march. They carried LED lights as symbols of recognition of the victims.

Many had lost family or friends or both to the horrific explosion.

The train derailed when the brakes failed on a parked train and it plunged down a hill into the town.

In the aftermath, officials pledged to move the train tracks that run near the downtown, but they remain as a silent reminder of the tragedy.

Trains carrying crude oil still run on the tracks, leaving residents in fear of another disaster.

Flowers were laid near the tracks. Other events were to be held over several days, including concerts and an exhibit detailing the town’s history.