Tractor trailer defies warning, becomes stuck on railroad tracks, is struck by train
KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / SHENANDOAH SENTINEL FILE - A Reading and Northern Railroad Police vehicle in Mahanoy City in 2017.
BARNESVILLE – A tractor trailer, defiant of a truck prohibition, tried to ascend a steep portion of State Road here, and became stuck on the railroad tracks before being struck by a train.
The crash happened around 4:30pm Thursday in Rush Township.
A Walmart tractor trailer headed east on Route 54 turned off onto State Road. State Road has a short, steep ascent from Route 54 to the Reading and Northern railroad grade and signs warn both of low ground clearance and a truck prohibition for trucks longer than 45 feet in length.
Reading and Northern Railroad Police are investigating and said a tow company was continuing to work to clear the truck from the tracks well into the night.
“If you’re ever stuck at a crossing please immediately call 911 or call the number on the blue ENS sign located at every crossing to report your vehicle at the location,” police said. “Also a reminder to truck drivers to never rely on a GPS systems and look out for signs that post truck restrictions.”
No injuries were reported.
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