PORTER, Texas – A truck driver escaped injury Saturday morning after his 18-wheeler was struck by a train on a railroad track in Porter.
The incident occurred at East Knox Drive and Loop 494 around 6:30 a.m.
Recommended Videos
Authorities say the 18-wheeler attempted to cross the tracks before it became “high-centered on the rails,” and got stuck.
Moments later, a Union Pacific train riding southbound on the tracks approached the stuck truck.
The train’s operator was unable to stop, causing it to slam into the 18-wheeler.
The truck’s trailer was immediately split in two. Fortunately, the driver of that 18-wheeler was able to make a speedy exit just as the train came to a stop, according to firefighters.
Beams that were being transported by the truck scattered on the rails after the collision, including one 12,000 pound pole that was driven some thirty feet into the ground, officials say. There was also heavy damage to the truck’s cab and flatbed.
Minor damage was found on the train’s front engine, however, the locomotive never fell off the tracks.
According to officials, the conductor of the train did not suffer any injuries. The status of the 18-wheeler’s driver was unknown as of Saturday afternoon.
Crews spent six hours working to clear the scene.
The intersection has since been reopened.