Dramatic video footage has captured the moment a freight train collided with a sewage truck at a rail crossing in Chesapeake, Virginia, resulting in a massive explosion of waste. The driver of the truck sustained life-threatening injuries in the incident, which occurred at around 4 p.m. on Thursday, according to police.
Collision Details
The video shows the truck nearly clearing the train tracks before a Norfolk Southern train struck its rear, causing the vehicle to spin off the rails and roll into a nearby street, splattering green liquid across the area. Azuriah O’Daniel, who recorded the incident, told WAVY-TV that the collision “busted the septic tank” and described the impact as “crazy.” O’Daniel noted that the train was unable to stop in time for the truck to finish crossing, and the intersection does not appear to have crossing gates.
Witness Reactions
In the recording, a witness can be heard exclaiming, “Holy s***, holy s***... oh my God. What the f***?” The Chesapeake Police Department stated in a press release that upon arrival, officers found the truck overturned. A minor fuel-related hazmat situation was identified, but authorities confirmed there is no immediate danger to the public.
Injuries and Investigation
The truck driver was transported to a local hospital with severe injuries. A Norfolk Southern spokesperson reported that none of the train crew were injured. Investigations are ongoing, but preliminary findings indicate the truck failed to stop at a posted stop sign before the collision. O’Daniel emphasized that trains cannot stop quickly, stating, “They’re not cars, they don’t have rubber tires, it’s steel rails with steel wheels. When you grind those two together, that’s just instant sparks.” The Independent has requested further information from the Chesapeake Police Department.
