Pickup truck driver killed in crash with Amtrak train in Guadalupe County

Crash reported on FM 78 east of Marion; no one in train injured

MARION, Texas – The driver of a dually pickup truck died after his vehicle crashed into an Amtrak train Friday morning in Guadalupe County, officials said.

According to the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office, the pickup truck crossed the tracks and didn't yield to the train around 9:30 a.m. in the 1000 block of FM 78 east of Marion.

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Witnesses said the train sounded its horn and it didn't appear the truck driver acknowleged the train, a news release said.

There are no crossing arms or barricades at the crossing due to it being private.

The train with 116 people on board was headed to New Orleans from Los Angeles. No one on the train was hurt.

The train left the crash scene around 1:20 p.m., leaving one railcar that was damaged by debris from the crash, Amtrak Public Relations Manager Marc Magliari said.

Amtrak released a statement regarding the incident:

"This is an opportunity to remind the public about the importance of exercising caution around railroad tracks and crossings. Amtrak continues to work closely with Operation Lifesaver to communicate the dangers of grade crossings. Each year, about 2,000 people are killed or injured in grade crossing and trespassing incidents nationwide. For rail grade crossing tips, visit Operation Lifesaver's website at www.oli.org.


About the Author:

David Ibañez has been managing editor of KSAT.com since the website's launch in October 2000.