Train Hits Trailer, Slicing it in Two

A Union Pacific train struck an 18-wheeler attempting to cross the tracks at Huelsebusch Rd. between La Grange and Plum on Tuesday, Sept. 1.

No one was injured.

The crash happened around noon. The train was heading west. The 18-wheeler was coming from Old Plum Highway and heading towards SH 71 when it attempted to cross the tracks. The trucktractor and about half of the trailer were across when the impact happened.

The train smashed through the trailer, which was carrying a load of pea gravel. The impact sent gravel flying everywhere. A portion of the trailer was lodged into the front of the lead locomotive. Part of the trailer came to rest on the north side of the tracks. The truck-tractor and part of the front of the trailer came to rest parallel to the tracks facing east.

The crossing remained closed for several hours while emergency workers cleared the wreckage.

The crossing at Huelsebusch Rd. is not protected with cross arms and has only a stop sign instead.