By David Sharp, The Associated Press
PORTLAND, Maine - A proposed settlement fund to compensate victims of a fiery train derailment that claimed 47 lives in Canada is due to be filed next month with more than $200 million in commitments.
The trustee for the railroad that went bankrupt after the disaster tells The Associated Press his goal is to more than double the sum - reaching about $500 million - by the time judges in the U.S. and Canada sign off.
Much of downtown Lac Megantic, Quebec, was destroyed in July 2013 when an unattended Montreal, Maine & Atlantic train with 72 oil tankers derailed and caused a massive fire.
Bankruptcy trustee Robert Keach says he's committed to getting as much money as possible for the victims. Wrongful death lawsuits are currently on hold pending the settlement outcome.
