A dramatic collision between a fire truck and a Brightline high-speed passenger train in Florida on Saturday morning left three firefighters and twelve train passengers injured.
The crash occurred at 10:45 AM at a rail crossing in the heart of Delray Beach. Video footage shows the Delray Beach Fire Rescue truck, with its lights flashing, driving around lowered crossing arms and into the path of the oncoming train.
The impact of the collision ripped the ladder off the fire truck and caused significant damage to the front of the Brightline train. Debris was scattered across the scene.
READ: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy Arrested For Domestic Violence Battery In Polk County
Three firefighters were transported to a local hospital in stable condition, according to Delray Beach Fire Rescue. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue reported that twelve train passengers were also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
A source familiar with the investigation revealed that the fire truck had stopped at the crossing to wait for a freight train to pass. After the freight train cleared, the fire truck proceeded around the still-lowered crossing arms and into the path of the Brightline train.
READ: Sheriff Says “Expect To Be Shot” When You Break Into A Florida Home
The Federal Railroad Administration will investigate the incident. The National Transportation Safety Board is also gathering information to determine whether to launch its own investigation.
This crash adds to the growing number of incidents involving Brightline trains, which have a high fatality rate. However, most previous deaths have been attributed to suicides, pedestrians crossing the tracks, or drivers going around crossing gates.
Brightline has emphasized the importance of railway safety and urged drivers to never go around closed gates.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.