Government investigating CN’s actions after rail crew caught in wildfire

Federal authorities are scrutinizing Canadian National Railway Co. after a dramatic incident saw a rail crew evacuated from a train engulfed in flames amid raging wildfires in northwestern Ontario. Transport Canada has launched an investigation to determine if CN failed to comply with regulations under the Railway Safety Act.

The department is also collaborating with Employment and Social Development Canada to assess whether any health and safety violations occurred. Transport Canada stated it would not hesitate to implement operational restrictions if necessary to ensure safety. The investigation follows a widely shared video depicting the train surrounded by intense flames near Armstrong, Ontario, with trees burning on both sides of the tracks.

A trade union representing railworkers confirmed the crew received treatment for smoke inhalation. The union has urged CN to halt operations in active wildfire zones, highlighting the extreme risks involved. CN has acknowledged the incident and stated it is conducting its own investigation into the circumstances. The company confirmed the crew was safely removed from the area and that rail operations in a section of northwestern Ontario have been temporarily suspended.