CN Railway Investigates 13-Car Derailment in St. Catharines, Polyethylene Spill Disrupts GO Train Service

Thirteen railcars derailed near Glendale Avenue and Keele Street in St. Catharines, Ontario on Monday morning, prompting an ongoing investigation by CN Railway. According to police and company officials, there have been no reported injuries or fires resulting from the incident.

CN Railway media relations advisor Michelle Hannan confirmed that the derailment caused a spill of polyethylene—a white, grainy substance used in the production of household plastics. Hannan stated that the material is classified as a non-dangerous good and that there is no threat to public safety. CN response teams and local first responders remain at the site as the cause of the derailment continues to be investigated.

The incident’s impact extended beyond the rail line. Niagara police reported that a section of Glendale Avenue was blocked by the derailed train for several hours. The blockage was later cleared on Monday morning. Metrolinx announced that GO train service between Confederation GO in Stoney Creek and Niagara Falls GO was suspended due to the freight train derailment, affecting service to St. Catharines GO as well. Passengers were directed to Route 12 GO bus service to Burlington GO, though officials advised against non-essential travel given limited bus capacity.

The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation noted minor disruptions to vessel traffic, as the rail bridge at lock four of the Welland Canal was affected. Spokesperson Nicole Giroux indicated that one-way vessel traffic was expected to resume shortly, with ongoing monitoring as conditions evolve.

As of Monday afternoon, CN crews and emergency responders remained on site and the investigation into the derailment’s cause was ongoing.