On behalf of the National Conference of Firemen & Oilers, SEIU 32BJ, President Dean Devita issues a statement regarding the Amtrak derailment in north-central Montana.
“The NCFO would like to send our condolences to the loved ones of those who passed away and well wishes to those who are still recovering from injuries after the tragic accident this past weekend. At around 4 p.m. mountain time on Saturday, Sept. 25, the Amtrak Empire Builder passenger train 7/27, heading west from Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA, derailed operating on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) tracks near Joplin, MT. Eight of the ten train cars came off the tracks. There were approximately 160 people onboard including crew members. Sadly, three people lost their lives, and more than 40 were injured. Five people were hospitalized, two of which remain intensive care. We are hopeful that the survivors all recover from this horrific and unlikely event, and we expect a full investigation will uncover the cause of the derailment. It’s imperative that we determine the problem to prevent this from happening again. Rail safety is the utmost priority for our railroad brothers & sisters and the passengers who opt to take a train over other travel options.
To the family & friends of the victims of this tragedy, words aren’t enough, but we hope you can find strength during this difficult time. We all share in your sorrow with love, support, and kindness.”
– NCFO President Dean Devita
The NCFO is an affiliate of 32BJ SEIU, the Service Employees International Union, which has 2.1 million members dedicated to raising industry standards, making life better for working families and our communities, and building a fair economy.
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