WINNIPEG — The driver of a truck that collided with a freight train, causing it to derail and start a toxic fire that forced 150 people from their homes, has been charged under the Manitoba Highway Traffic Act, a wire service reported.
Anthine Calvin LeFait, 35, of Austin, Man., is charged with disobeying a railway crossing sign by proceeding to cross the tracks before it was safe, RCMP said Tuesday. He is to appear in court June 5 in Dauphin, Man.
The accident occurred May 2, near Firdale, Man., midway between Portage la Prairie and Brandon.
The Canadian National freight train derailed at an uncontrolled crossing. No one was injured in the accident but the train was carrying an alcohol used in antifreeze, benzene and plastic pellets and a massive fire sent toxic smoke billowing across the countryside.
Nearby residents were forced from their homes for up to two days.