FBI investigates possible La Pine train track sabotage

Aug 11,2007 00:00 by Cheryl McDermott

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Burlington Northern police, and Deschutes County Sheriff’s deputies are investigating a possible sabotaging of the train tracks near La Pine after “something” on or near the tracks was found that was described as an apparent attempt to cause damage to the track, potentially causing a train derailment.

According to a news release prepared by Sheriff Larry Blanton, deputies were called to the scene about 1 p.m., August 10.

While declining to say what item(s) or substance was found, Blanton said that it was discovered when a northbound train en route from Klamath Falls to Bend was carrying seven cars of a hazardous material (anhydrous ammonia).

“There was no derailment, no damage to the track, and no injuries,” the sheriff said. Evacuation of the area was not required.

The investigation is continuing.