8 train cars derail in Willmar; no threat to the public

A railroad crossing in Willmar was forced to close after eight train cars derailed.

According to the Willmar Police Department, the derailment happened Wednesday evening at the crossing at Lakeland Drive.

The crossing was forced to close for repairs and removal of the cars, which were carrying ethanol. It is expected to reopen Friday.

A spokesperson for BNSF Railway said no cars were compromised and no injuries were reported.

Last month, a train derailment involving 15 BNSF cars near Big Lake resulted in impacts on the railway's main lines as well as the cancellation of Northstar rail service.