Washington - KUNA
Authorities in Lac-Megantic, Quebec confirmed at a news conference Saturday that one person has died and up to a hundred others were missing after a train carrying crude oil derailed, resulting in huge explosions inside the small town. One thousand people were forced to evacuate overnight as the fire and black smoke engulfed 30 buildings, according to Quebec provincial police. The derailment occurred in the early hours of Saturday, and an investigation was said to be underway to determine the cause. \"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those affected,\" said Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in a statement. \"We hope evacuees can return to their homes safely and quickly.\" Lac-Megantic is located in southeastern Quebec, and is a town of some 6,000 residents. It lies 10 miles from the U.S. border with Maine