Ventura County, California – A startling collision between an Amtrak train and a parked semi-truck has resulted in the derailing of one train car and five individuals being hospitalized, as reported by the Ventura County Fire Department.
The incident occurred around 6:20 p.m. near Sand Canyon Road and East Los Angeles Avenue, also known as California 118, in the unincorporated community of Somis.
The train, identified as an Amtrak Pacific SurfLiner heading southbound to Los Angeles, collided with a semi-truck that was stationary at the railroad crossing, according to Andy VanSciver, VCFD spokesperson.
In this impactful collision involving six train cars, only the front car derailed. Five individuals were injured in the incident, with four sustaining minor injuries, while the fifth suffered injuries ranging from minor to moderate, according to authorities.
At the time of the incident, the train carried 90 passengers and five train employees. As a safety measure, California 118 was closed from Balcom Canyon Road to Somis Road, also known as California 34. The closure is expected to remain in effect until morning, as stated by the California Highway Patrol.
This road closure will impact traffic in the area, and residents are encouraged to take alternative routes while emergency teams work at the scene.
This Amtrak train accident underscores the importance of safety at railroad crossings and the need for increased awareness and caution from both drivers and train operators. We wish a speedy recovery to the victims.