Four people, including three passengers, were killed when an Amtrak train struck a truck at a grade crossing near Mendon, Missouri.
At 12:42 p.m. Central time on June 27, eight cars and two locomotives of the eastbound Southwest Chief (Train 4) derailed after striking a truck obstructing a public grade crossing.
Approximately 275 passengers and 12 crew members were on the train, traveling on a BNSF-owned track from Los Angeles to Chicago. Local authorities responded to the scene to assist and care for our customers and employees.
“There are also several reported injuries among the passengers and crew members traveling on the train,” Amtrak said in a statement. “Amtrak is working with local authorities to make sure those who are injured get medical care and everyone else receives services and transportation.”
Because of the crash, the Southwest Chief (Train 4) that departed Los Angeles on Monday, June 27, will terminate in Kansas City, Missouri. Amtrak has canceled the Southwest Chief (Train 4) scheduled to depart Los Angeles on Wednesday, June 29.
The Southwest Chief (Train 3) scheduled to depart Chicago on Tuesday, June 28, and Wednesday, June 29, will both originate in Kansas City.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by yesterday’s tragic incident in Missouri, including those who lost their lives, the passengers, their families, the train crew members, first responders and the Mendon, Missouri community,” Rachel Maleh, the executive director of Operation Lifesaver, said in a statement. “This heartbreaking incident is a sad reminder that every three hours in the U.S., a vehicle or person is hit by a train.
“In the wake of this tragedy, Operation Lifesaver would like to encourage everyone to review our safety tips, take our Rail Safety Pledge and share it with family and friends,” Maleh added. “Together, we can stop track tragedies.”
