Freight Train Strikes Semi Stuck on Tracks in Midway Township

A freight train collided with a semitruck that had become stuck on active railroad tracks near the intersection of Stark Road and Stark Junction Road in Midway Township at approximately 11:30 a.m. Friday, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff's Office. The semi driver escaped without injury after moving away from the vehicle before impact.

The semi was pulling an empty flatbed trailer when icy and snow-covered road conditions caused it to become immobilized at the crossing. The driver had been attempting to put chains on the truck when the train began to approach. The driver moved away from the truck before the train struck it, according to the sheriff's office.

Carlton County Fire News reported that the train was unable to stop in time, and that the crash caused damage to the truck and trailer. No dollar estimate for the damage was immediately available. Rail traffic in the area was briefly impacted, and deputies temporarily shut down the crossing while crews worked to assess the damage and clear the scene. The road was later reopened, according to Fox21.

The Minnesota State Patrol, Canadian National Railroad Police, and the St. Louis County Sheriff's Office are investigating the crash. The identity of the semi driver and the trucking company involved have not been released. No information about potential hazardous materials or the extent of damage to the rail equipment has been provided by investigators.

Authorities are urging drivers to use extreme caution at railroad crossings during winter conditions, noting that vehicles can become immobilized in deep snow or ice at crossings with little warning time before an approaching train.